LSE academic awarded Arne Richter Award for Outstanding Early Career Scientists

Dr Francisco de Melo Viríssimo, who is based at the Grantham Research Institute (GRI) on Climate Change and the Environment at LSE, has received a 2026 Arne Richter Award for Outstanding Early Career Scientists.

Organised by the European Geosciences Union (EGU), the Arne Richter Award honours those who have made important contributions to the Earth, planetary and space sciences. Past recipients include climate tipping points pioneer Professor Tim Lenton and IPCC AR5 Lead Professor Olivier Boucher. The 2026 awardees will be celebrated during the EGU General Assembly 2026, which will be held from 3 – 8 May 2026.

Dr de Melo Viríssimo is a mathematician and environmental scientist, with a primary interest in climate and ocean phenomena. Recently, his work has extended into climate adaptation, where he applies climate science methods to the field of adaptation finance. This involves understanding the barriers to financing the estimated £9 billion the UK needs for its climate adaptation projects, and unlocking the potential financing options.

Commenting on the award Dr de Melo Viríssimo, said: "To be honest, I am yet to believe that I have received this award. With so many world-leading scientists among past recipients, I can't help but feel a bit out of my place as an awardee myself.

“Nevertheless, I think this award is a testimony to the value of both mathematicians and interdisciplinary research in tackling climate and environmental challenges - and conversely, the power of nature to inspire new fundamental research in mathematics. It is also proof of the importance and reach of the research done at both LSE and GRI - so ultimately, it's an award for all my inspiring and talented colleagues at Grantham too, from whom I've learned so much over the years."

The quality of Dr de Melo Viríssimo’s work has been recognised by several awards over the years, including a prestigious STEM for BRITAIN Award in the Houses of Parliament in 2024 for “quality of mathematical work” on climate prediction.

For more information about the Arne Richter Awards and a list of this year’s recipients, please visit: EGU - News & press - EGU announces the 2026 awards and medals!