Geoffrey Eglinton was a chemist whose insights into the geological fate of organic compounds made him an internationally respected biogeochemist. In addition to the significance of his research on molecular biomarkers (‘chemical fossils’), he was responsible for developing numerous experimental techniques that remain in widespread use.
One of the first researchers to illustrate the potential of coupled gas chromatography–mass spectrometry in organic geochemistry, Geoffrey also pioneered the use of infrared spectroscopy to characterise both inter- and intra-molecular hydrogen bonding. These innovative techniques improved understanding of diverse aspects of the distribution, stable isotopic content and provenance of organic compounds in the global environment.
Geoffrey’s team at the University of Bristol’s celebrated Organic Geochemistry Unit was chosen to conduct the first organic analyses of moon rocks brought to Earth in 1969 by astronauts aboard Apollo 11. He was awarded the NASA Gold Medal for Exceptional Scientific Achievement, as well as the Royal Society’s Royal Medal. In 2008, he also received the prestigious Dan David Prize in the field of geosciences.
Professor Geoffrey Eglinton FRS died on 11 March 2016.
Professional position
- Emeritus Professor, University of Bristol
Subject groups
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Chemistry
Chemistry, organic
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Earth and Environmental Sciences
Geochemistry
Awards
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Royal Medal
In recognition of his contribution to our understanding of the way in which chemicals move from the living biosphere to the fossil geosphere, in particular the origin, genesis, maturation and migration of oil which has had great repercussions on the petroleum industry. He is one of the founders of the subject of Organic Geochemistry.
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Dan David Prize
In the field of geosciences.
