The Sir John William Dawson Medal was established in 1985 by RSC to honour the man who was its first President (1882-1883) and who was the foremost Canadian scientist and educator of his day: geologist, naturalist, teacher, author, man of religion, educational administrator and promoter of learning. The medal was endowed by McGill Graduates Society (founded by Sir William in 1857), the Henry Birks Foundation and RSC itself, with contributions from Fellows, and staff and friends from McGill, to commemorate his term as Principal and to honour “the man who built McGill”.

To commemorate Dawson’s great versatility, the award is made for important and sustained contributions in two domains of interest to RSC or in interdisciplinary research. The silver medal and a cash amount of $2,500 are awarded every two years if there is a suitable candidate.

The RSC Awards and Medals Committee shall serve as the selection committee.

Award Winners