Prize winners

Björn Carlsons Östersjöpris is intended to recognise researchers or other individuals who have made valuable contributions to improving the Baltic Sea environment in a broad sense. This may involve independent research findings or projects conducted over a longer period. Consideration will also be given to initiatives to translate research into policy or communicate findings to the wider public.

Winners of the Björn Carlsons Östersjöpris are announced in August each year, followed by a prize ceremony in September.

 

2025 – Professor Kerstin Johannesson

Professor Kerstin Johannesson is awarded the prize for her groundbreaking contributions to a healthier and more resilient marine environment. Her research has revolutionized the understanding of marine evolutionary biology in the Baltic Sea, particularly regarding genetic diversity, local adaptation, and ecosystem resilience.

 

2024 – Professor Ragnar Elmgren

Professor Ragnar Elmgren is awarded for being one of the most outstanding researchers in the field of marine eutrophication. His pioneering work over the past 50 years has focused on understanding the complex interactions between human activities and marine ecosystems, particularly in the Baltic Sea. Through his tireless efforts to educate the public and train future generations of scientists he has shared his knowledge both nationally and internationally. Even to this day, his work continues to form the basis of policy development.

 

2023 – Professors Jacob Carstensen & Daniel Conley

Professors Jacob Carstensen and Daniel Conley are awarded for playing critical roles in shaping key research on eutrophication, water quality, hypoxia, and underlying biogeochemical processes in the Baltic Sea. Through groundbreaking collaboration, Carstensen and Conley have combined expertise from different fields, and thus, their research has transformed, developed and broadened this field of research.

 

2022 – Professor Maren Voss

Professor Maren Voss is awarded for her pioneering research on the importance of nitrogen as a nutrient in the ocean, and especially the Baltic Sea. Professor Voss realized early the central role nitrogen plays in the eutrophication of the Baltic Sea, and has used advanced isotope analyses to map the sources and cycling of nitrogen in the ocean. Her research has led to greater emphasis on nitrogen abatement in the management of Baltic Sea eutrophication.