Oxburgh Award goes to Surrey’s Professor Jim Lynch

press release

Published: 02 May 2025

Oxburgh Award goes to Surrey’s Professor Jim Lynch

Jim Lynch OBE, KHS, FRSC, FRSB, FRSA, FRGS, a pioneering voice in sustainable policy and Distinguished Professor of Life Sciences Emeritus at the �鶹��Ƶ, has been awarded the Oxburgh Award by the Institute of Measurement and Control.

Jim Lynch

The Institute awards the Oxburgh Award to a person "whose contribution to measurement, instrumentation and control in the field of environmental science and engineering is of outstanding merit." Specifically, the Institute is recognising Professor Lynch for his research, which ranges from studying soil microbes using microscopes and molecular tools to using satellites to study soils and trees on a global scale.

Jim’s work here at our Centre for Environmental Sustainability has shaped and influenced how we understand and measure the environment – helping scientists around the world make better decisions. On behalf of the �鶹��Ƶ, I'd like to congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition. Professor Bob Nichol, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean (FEPS)

In his illustrious career spanning more than 50 years, Jim Lynch has worked as a scientist, policy advisor, and board member in government, universities, and industry. He has led teams in health, environment and sustainability, often serving as Chief Executive or Chair.

A chemist and microbiologist by training, he has published widely and advised UK and international bodies, including the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

Jim was awarded the OBE for services to agriculture and sustainability.

Throughout my career, I’ve always believed that science should serve society. Whether in the lab, the classroom or the boardroom, my aim has been to turn knowledge into action – to support better decisions, better policies and a more sustainable future. Professor Jim Lynch, Distinguished Professor of Life Sciences Emeritus