Olaf Eisen
The 2026 Julia and Johannes Weertman Medal is awarded to Olaf Eisen for outstanding contributions to the application of geophysical methods to glaciers and ice sheets, and extensive professional service to the cryospheric community.
Olaf Eisen is a Professor for Glaciology at the Alfred Wegener Institute, Bremerhaven, Germany. He is a world leading expert on the application of geophysical methods in glaciology, renowned for his innovative use of a wide range of techniques including ground-penetrating radar and seismic imaging, to investigate the structural and dynamic properties of ice sheets and glaciers. His work also includes contributions to ice-core interpretation and palaeoclimate studies, our understanding of climate in relation to glacier surging, as well as snow and sea-ice sciences. Significant contributions include the interpretation of radar returns with the help of ice cores, the identification of radio-echo free zones, a careful analysis of the effects of anisotropy on radar signals and the development of a mathematically robust solution to untangle the effect of ice flow on accumulation history recorded in radar-detectable layers. Notably, he brought the novel technique of vibroseismic surveys to glaciology. He played a pivotal role in the quest for finding Earth´s oldest ice. Overall, his work showcases exceptional insight and innovation.
Eisen's research achievements are all the more impressive given his many other activities. He is deeply devoted to professional service within the glaciological community and beyond. In addition to various leadership positions at his institute, he served as President of the Cryospheric Sciences Division of EGU and editor for various journals including Co-Editor-in-Chief for EGU journal 'The Cryosphere'. He also held leadership roles in major EU research consortia. Eisen takes public outreach seriously, tirelessly communicating issues related to glaciers and climate change. He also initiated EGU's Cryospheric Sciences Division blog; the Cryo-Blog. He demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to supporting Early Career Scientists through graduate student supervision and teaching.
His outstanding scientific record, combined with his generous service to the community and his deep commitment to mentoring the next generation of glaciologists, make Eisen a truly deserving recipient of the Julia and Johannes Weertman Medal.