A distinguished environmental scientist and a leading advocate for women in science and engineering has been honoured by her alma mater. Professor Lynne Frostick CBE returned to the University of Leicester to receive an honorary Doctorate of Science at a graduation ceremony held at De Montfort Hall.
An Exemplary Career in Science and Public Service
Professor Frostick, who graduated from Leicester with a BSc in Geology in 1970, built a formidable reputation as an expert in managing flood risk and coastal erosion. Her significant contribution to public safety included serving as a board member for the Environment Agency from 2015 to 2022, during which she had responsibility for England’s flood and coastal risk management strategy.
Her academic journey saw her complete a PhD at the University of East Anglia before holding positions at Birkbeck, Royal Holloway, and the University of Reading. In 1996, she was appointed professor of physical geography at the University of Hull, where she is now an emerita professor. At Hull, she also served as pro-vice-chancellor for enterprise and director of the Hull Environment Research Institute.
Pioneering Research and Advocacy for Women in STEM
The core of Professor Frostick's research involved capturing data from marine and aquatic environments to refine predictive models for erosion and flooding. This work has been crucial in developing strategies to protect communities and landscapes.
Parallel to her scientific work, she has been a tireless campaigner for gender equality in STEM fields. She chaired the Government’s Expert Group for Women in STEM and served on numerous related committees, including the Science Council and the Equality and Diversity Advisory Panel for the Research Excellence Framework (REF).
A Legacy of Achievement and Inspiration
Her accolades are numerous, including the Royal Geographical Society’s Cuthbert Peek award in 2005, a Woman of Outstanding Achievement award in 2009, the British Society for Geomorphology’s David Linton Medal in 2021, and the Geological Society’s prestigious Lyell Medal in 2024. She was awarded a CBE in 2022 for her services to geography and flood risk management.
Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Frostick said: “I am very proud of this award. Leicester gave me a great start in my academic life, and I will always be grateful for the care and support I received from the staff – particularly my tutor professor Aftab Khan.”
Professor Sir Nishan Canagarajah, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leicester, praised her as an inspiration. “Professor Frostick has enjoyed an exemplary career, while seeking to use her position to influence and further the cause of women in STEM. She’s an inspiration to every student here at Leicester and a true Citizen of Change,” he said.
