The Julius von Haast Fellowship Award annually supports an internationally recognized German researcher, enabling them to spend three years conducting regular research stays in New Zealand in order to establish long-term collaborations with New Zealand partner institutions. The Royal Society Te Apārangi's partner is the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, and Marzeion's host in New Zealand is Dr. Lauren Vargo at Victoria University of Wellington. “I am thrilled that the Antarctic Research Centre is hosting this international collaboration with Ben, whose wealth of expertise will enrich our institution as well as the wider New Zealand community,” says Lauren Vargo.

“Together, we will develop a new method to demonstrate the influence of humans on the melting of mountain glaciers and in Antarctica. Subsequently, in collaboration with other institutions in New Zealand, we will also look at other climate impacts such as food production and human health,” explains Professor Marzeion. This will create an important foundation for politics and society in dealing with climate change. Marzeion plan to complete his research stays in New Zealand over the next three years until 2028.

The prize is named after the German geologist Sir Johann Franz “Julius” von Haast, who became one of New Zealand's most important naturalists in the 19th century. With his expeditions and as founder of the Canterbury Museum in Christchurch, he had a lasting impact on the scientific understanding of the country.

Further Information:

https://www.royalsociety.org.nz/what-we-do/funds-and-opportunities/catalyst-fund/catalyst-leaders/recipients/january-2025/