The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) has announced that Michael Spall, a Senior Scientist in Physical Oceanography, will deliver the prestigious Harald Sverdrup Lecture at the upcoming Ocean Sciences Meeting in February 2026. This honor, awarded by the American Geophysical Union (AGU), recognizes exceptional contributions to oceanographic research and collaboration.
The Harald Sverdrup Lecture is part of AGU’s renowned Bowie Lecture Series, established to commemorate the 50th presentation of the William Bowie Medal, AGU’s highest accolade. The lecture is named after pioneering geophysicist Harald Sverdrup, who was a recipient of this distinguished award.
Significant Contributions to Ocean Science
Throughout his esteemed career, Spall has advanced understanding of ocean circulation over extensive scales, from tens to thousands of kilometers. His research has provided crucial insights into the physical dynamics of the ocean, particularly regarding the mechanisms behind the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a vital component of Earth’s climate system.
“It is an honor to receive this recognition from the AGU,” said Spall. “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.”
Spall’s body of work includes studies that have reshaped modern oceanographic theory. He has demonstrated that high-latitude sinking of dense water occurs along the boundaries of ocean basins rather than in their interiors. This critical insight continues to influence contemporary climate modeling and oceanographic research.
Over his career, Spall has published more than 130 papers across various scientific journals, with many regarded as foundational within the field of oceanography. His contributions have significantly impacted how scientists understand ocean dynamics and climate interactions.
About Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is a private, non-profit organization located on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Established in 1930, its mission focuses on advancing knowledge of the ocean and its interactions with the Earth, particularly in light of a changing global environment. WHOI is renowned for its innovative blend of science and engineering, earning its reputation as a global leader in ocean research and exploration.
With a multidisciplinary approach, WHOI operates the most extensive suite of ocean data-gathering platforms worldwide, supporting over 800 concurrent projects. These initiatives, led by top scientists, engineers, and students, aim to expand understanding of ocean processes and inform public policy for a healthier planet. WHOI relies on the expertise of ship captains, mates, craftsmen, and marine operations professionals to facilitate its extensive research efforts.
For more information about WHOI and its projects, visit whoi.edu.
