Dr Kathryn Goodenough honoured with prestigious award from The Geological Society 

Dr Kathryn Goodenough, head of BGS International – Regional Geoscience, has been awarded the prestigious Coke Medal from the Geological Society. The award is given to geoscientists in recognition of their contributions to science and for activities that result in benefits to the community.  

Kathryn’s research focuses primarily on the critical raw materials required for decarbonisation, such as lithium and the rare earth elements. Kathryn is a longstanding senior member of BGS’s international programme, collaborating with colleagues around the world on projects concerning global resources, particularly rare earth elements, which are essential for decarbonisation and the energy transition. She currently leads BGS’s programme of externally commissioned international research and capacity building, delivering global collaboration across BGS’s science remit.

I’m delighted to have been awarded this medal by the Geological Society and must thank all the wonderful colleagues that I have worked with over the years, who make the job such a pleasure to do.

Dr Kathryn Goodenough.

Kathryn is also the chief editor of the Earth Science, Systems and Society journal, published by the Geological Society, which is dedicated to the publication of timely and topical research of high importance across the breadth of the geosciences. 

In 2020, Kathryn was named one of the top 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining by Women in Mining UK. 

The formal presentation of awards will be celebrated on President’s Day, 11 June 2025, at Burlington House in London.