BACKGROUND
The Victoria J. Bertics Memorial Award for Aquatic Science recognizes ASLO members who could not fulfill their career potential because of early death or disability. Initiated in 1987, the Award was originally called the ASLO Citation for Scientific Excellence, but was renamed in honor of Victoria Bertics, a brilliant young scientist whose career was sadly curtailed by illness. Nominees can be any career stage and have, in the past, ranged from post-doctoral fellows to senior scientists.
NOMINATIONS
Nominations should be made directly to the ASLO President and are considered by the entire Board. Nomination procedure is less formal than with other awards, but should include a statement of the nominee's aspirations and achievements. Further details may be obtained from the ASLO President.
PREVIOUS CITATIONS FOR SCIENTIFIC EXCELLENCE
Victoria J. Bertics (2014), for her work on sediment biogeochemistry, in particular the interactions among animals, sediment, and microbes and the resulting impact on biogeochemical cycles. View award presentation
Scott W. Nixon (2013), for his intellectual generosity and unending passion for marine science, mentorship, and protection of coastal ecosystems. View award presentation
Peter Verity (2011), who made valuable contributions in many areas of plankton ecology in his all too brief career. View award presentation
Thomas Frost (2008), for his contributions to the literature on freshwater sponges and the acidification of lakes, and for the unselfish attention that he devoted to helping others in science, providing advice, encouragement, and guidance. View award presentation
John I. Hedges (2003), for his many contributions to aquatic organic chemistry - particularly where oceans intersect the terrestrial world; for his stewardship as a long-time Associate Editor of Limnology and Oceanography; for his fine mentorship of many students and post-docs; and, for his ability to make us all enjoy science a bit more.
Robert H. Peters (1997) for his outstanding contributions to limnology in general and to phosphorus cycling in lakes in particular, and for his leadership in epistemological and philosophical thinking in the ecological sciences.
John H. Martin (1996), who has revolutionized our understanding of plankton rate processes, carbon cycling and the role of trace metals in regulating ecosystem structure, and whose work has stimulated some of the most significant findings of the last decade.
Peter Kilham (1990), in tribute for his many and significant contributions to aquatic science, in particular in the fields of biogeochemistry and African limnology, and in memory of intellectual enthusiasm and stimulation he always offered colleagues in the Society.
Carl J. Lorenzen (1987), in recognition of innovative and imaginative studies of phytoplankton pigments in the ocean.