Medals
INQUA awards scientists for their significant contributions to Quaternary science and the organization itself. These awards include:
The Sir Nicholas Shackleton Medal for Outstanding Young Quaternary Scientists
The medal is awarded once every two years to an outstanding young Quaternary scientist, chosen by his or her peers and evaluated by a blue-ribbon committee of distinguished scientists.
Shackleton Medal recipients
- 2025: Nicole Khan
- 2023: Qiaomei Fu
- 2021: Julie Loisel
- 2019: Qiuzhen Yin
- 2017: Amaelle Landais
- 2015: Robert E. Kopp
- 2013: Not awarded
- 2011: Yuki Sawai
- 2009: Zenobia Jacobs
- 2007: Chris Turney
On 21 January 2026, the six shortlisted candidates for the INQUA 2025 Sir Nicholas Shackleton Medal: Jeniffer Bates (Seoul National University, South Korea), Andrea Columbu (Pisa University, Italy), Nicole Khan (University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong – 2025 medal winner), Michela Mariani (University of Nottingham, UK), Kaustubh Thirumalai (University of Arizona, USA), Xu Zhang (British Antarctic Survey, UK) were invited to present their scientific achievements and to highlight their contributions to Quaternary research and to the activities of INQUA. Watch their outstanding presentations in the video below.
Celebrate Dr. Julie Loisel, the 2021 Shackleton Medal winner, for her outstanding contributions to Quaternary science. From advancing our understanding of peatland ecosystems to climate change impacts, her groundbreaking research continues to inspire the scientific community.
Meet Dr. Qiaomei Fu, the 2023 Shackleton Medal winner, recognized for her pioneering work in ancient DNA research. Her groundbreaking studies have unveiled new insights into human evolution, migration, and adaptation during the Quaternary period.
The Liu Tungsheng Distinguished Career Medal for Distinguished Service to the International Community in Quaternary Science
The Liu Tungsheng Distinguished Career Medal is awarded to a senior Quaternary scientist who has made significant and distinguished contributions that have advanced Quaternary science through dedicated service to the international community.
Liu Tungsheng Medal recipients
- 2023: Denis-Didier Rousseau
- 2019: Nicolas Lancaste
- 2015: Ann G. Wintle
- 2011: Stephen C. Porter
INQUA Distinguished Service Medal
The INQUA Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to individuals with a recognized record of sustained and outstanding contributions to the maintenance or development of INQUA’s important functions (e.g. organization, operations, outputs, publicity).
INQUA Distinguished Service Medal Recipients
- 2023: Norm Catto
- 2019: Marie-France Loutre
- 2015: Nathaniel W. Rutter
Honoring Dr. Norm Catto, recipient of the 2023 INQUA Distinguished Service Medal, for his exceptional dedication and contributions to Quaternary science. Celebrate his impactful career, inspiring leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing the field.