Murray W. Hitzman

University College Dublin

2026 AGI Medal in Memory of Ian Campbell

Murray W. Hitzman is honored for superlative service to the geosciences across industry, academia, government, and international science. His seminal 1992 work defined iron-oxide–copper–gold deposits as a distinct class, and as Chevron's Exploration Manager in Ireland he led the discovery of the Lisheen zinc-lead-silver deposit. As a GSA-USGS Congressional Science Fellow with Senator Lieberman and an AAAS/Sloan Fellow at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, he brought geoscience to national policy, later serving as USGS Associate Director for Energy and Minerals. As Fogarty Professor at the Colorado School of Mines and Director of iCRAG at University College Dublin, he mentored more than 70 graduate students and postdocs. A Member of the Royal Irish Academy, past president of the Society of Economic Geologists, recipient of its 2026 Penrose Gold Medal, and chair of the International Geoscience Programme Council, he is valued as much for his modesty, wisdom, and willingness to listen and mentor as he is for his achievements.

I would like to sincerely thank AGI and the Member societies for this recognition, which I appreciate deeply.

During my career I split my time and energies between the US and abroad. There is no question in my mind that the ideals that the medal seeks to reward – a demand for (quote) “extraordinary service performed with the highest qualities of statesmanship” (unquote) – are needed more now than ever before both here at home and around the world. Given the myriad pressing issues involving the geosciences that we all currently face, I encourage all geoscientists to do their utmost to not only improve our science but to also ensure it is used for the greater good. My career has shown me that many young geoscientists are eager to combine technical excellence and inquiry with a deep desire to use their scientific skills for the betterment of society – whether that be through involvement with professional societies, educating the public, or taking roles in government. My sincere wish is that our geoscience societies continue to strengthen links between geoscience and the public community.

I would like again to thank AGI for this recognition.