Awards
Celebrating Excellence across the UK Earth Observation Community
The UKEO 2026 Awards recognised the outstanding individuals and teams whose work is advancing Earth Observation research, innovation, impact, engagement, teaching, mentoring, and collaboration across the UK EO community.
Presented during the UKEO 2026 Gala Dinner, the awards celebrated the achievements of researchers, practitioners, educators, communicators, and partners who are helping to shape the future of Earth Observation.
We would like to congratulate all nominees and winners and thank everyone who took the time to submit nominations and support colleagues across the community.
UKEO 2026 Community Award
Congratulations to our nominees and winners
The quality of nominations received for the UKEO 2026 Awards was exceptional, highlighting the breadth of talent, innovation, and impact across the UK Earth Observation community.
From pioneering scientific research and successful industry collaborations to inspiring teaching, mentoring, public engagement, and societal impact, this year’s nominees demonstrated the vital role Earth Observation plays in addressing environmental, economic, and societal challenges.
We are proud to recognise all those who were nominated and celebrate their contributions to our community.
Awards Presentation
The UKEO 2026 Community Awards were presented during the Conference Gala Dinner on 16 September 2026, bringing together delegates from across academia, industry, government, and the public sector to celebrate excellence and achievement within the UK Earth Observation community.
The awards ceremony provided an opportunity to recognise the individuals and teams whose work is delivering scientific advancement, real-world impact, innovation, collaboration, and engagement across the sector.
UKEO 2026 Award Winners
Congratulations to our nominees and winners
Congratulations to this year’s winners, whose achievements represent some of the very best work taking place across the UK Earth Observation community.
Research Award
Recognising excellence in Earth Observation research and scientific contribution
Winner
- Prof Sarah Dance (University of Reading)
Business Collaboration Award
Recognising successful collaboration between academia, industry, or other partners that delivers innovation and value.
Winner
- Tony Canas (SSTL)
Teaching and/or Mentoring Award
Recognising excellence in teaching, supervision, mentoring, or capacity building within the EO community.
Winner:
- Jonathan Murray (Imperial College London)
Impact Award
Celebrating EO work that has delivered demonstrable impact for policy, practice, or society.
Winner:
- Rushanka Amrutkar (Environment Agency)
Public Engagement Award
Celebrating outstanding engagement activities that increase awareness, understanding, or use of Earth Observation.
Winner:
- Angie Watson (STEM Learning)
2026 Postgraduate Award
Celebrating exceptional achievement by a postgraduate researcher in Earth Observation.
Winner:
- Emily Dowd (University of Leeds)
