Bill Ruddiman, Professor Emeritus of Environmental Sciences, has been awarded the 2010 Lyell Medal by the Geological Society of London.

The Geological Society of London is the oldest geological society in the world (founded in 1807).  The Lyell Medal, one of the premier medals of the Society, is given to someone who has made a significant contribution to “soft rock” geology by means of a substantial body of research.  It was first awarded in 1876.

Charles Lyell was one of the most prominent geologists of the 19th century.  His book, Principles of Geology (1830-1833), which argued that the present is the key to the past, was a major influence on Darwin.