The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) has announced that Michael Spall, a Senior Scientist specializing in Physical Oceanography, has been chosen to present the prestigious Harald Sverdrup Lecture. This recognition comes from the American Geophysical Union (AGU) and acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to atmospheric and oceanographic research while fostering collaboration in these fields.
The lecture, which honors the legacy of the renowned geophysicist Harald Sverdrup, is part of AGU”s esteemed Bowie Lecture Series. This series was initiated to celebrate the 50th presentation of the William Bowie Medal, the highest accolade awarded by AGU, which Sverdrup himself received.
Spall is set to deliver his lecture at the upcoming Ocean Sciences Meeting in February 2026. His career has been marked by groundbreaking research that enhances understanding of ocean circulation patterns over vast distances, ranging from tens to thousands of kilometers. His work has been instrumental in elucidating the physical dynamics that influence the ocean, particularly the factors driving the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a vital element of the Earth”s climate system.
Expressing his gratitude, Spall remarked, “It is an honor to receive this recognition from the AGU. My research has been guided largely by curiosity, so it is nice to see that others value the questions that have driven my work. I feel fortunate to have been able to spend my career at WHOI, where collaboration and the sharing of ideas have provided a rich environment for exploring how the ocean works.”
Throughout his distinguished career, Spall has published over 130 papers across more than twenty scientific journals, with many of his works considered foundational in oceanography. His research has notably established that the sinking of dense water in high-latitude regions occurs along the edges of ocean basins instead of within their interiors, a revelation that continues to influence contemporary oceanographic theories and climate modeling.
The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, founded in 1930, is a private, non-profit organization located on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Its mission centers on marine research, engineering, and education, aiming to deepen the understanding of ocean interactions with the Earth and their significance in the context of a changing global environment. WHOI is recognized for its innovative discoveries that stem from an integration of scientific and engineering disciplines, solidifying its status as a leading entity in ocean research and exploration. The institution is known for its multidisciplinary approach, advanced vessel operations, and unparalleled deep-sea robotics, managing an extensive array of ocean data-gathering platforms worldwide. More than 800 concurrent projects are undertaken by top scientists, engineers, and students, pushing the boundaries of knowledge to better inform society and influence policies for a healthier planet.
For more information, visit whoi.edu.
