By Tony O’Reilly-
Dr. Francisco de Melo Viríssimo, (pictured)a distinguished mathematician and climate scientist, was recognized with a prestigious STEM for BRITAIN Award in the Houses of Parliament in 2024 for the “quality of mathematical work” on climate prediction. This significant accolade highlights his innovative research in applying advanced mathematics to address crucial challenges in climate science, particularly the quantification of uncertainty in climate models and the prediction of future climate scenarios.
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.
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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 £
A Career at the Interface of Disciplines
Dr. de Melo Viríssimo’s academic background in pure and applied mathematics provided a foundation for his transition into climate science. His work at the UK’s National Oceanography Centre and his current position at the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment at the London School of Economics demonstrate his focus on applying mathematical principles to climate prediction and uncertainty.
Dr. de Melo Viríssimo’s research explores what makes climate models useful for future climate information. His work involves modelling various ocean and climate phenomena, quantifying how different uncertainties affect model results to improve experimental design, and addressing aspects of the ocean’s carbon cycle.
Service to the Community and Future Impact Dr. de Melo Viríssimo has contributed to the mathematical community as a Councillor and Trustee for the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA).
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He is also involved in promoting mathematical sciences and is an Associate Member of the Parliamentary & Scientific Committee. His research is being applied in projects like the ATTENUATE project, which aims to encourage private investment in UK climate adaptation.
The STEM for BRITAIN award recognizes the practical relevance of his work in using mathematics to address climate change.
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.
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