THIS year’s National Eisteddfod Science and Technology Medal has been awarded to Professor Siwan Davies of Swansea University in recognition of her outstanding contribution to scientific research, education and science communication through the medium of Welsh.

Originally from Newport, just a few miles from this year’s Maes, Professor Davies is internationally recognised for her work in physical geography and climate change. She has also played a leading role in developing Welsh-medium education and research at Swansea University.

The Science and Technology Medal has been a fixture of the National Eisteddfod for more than 20 years. This year marks the first time it has been presented in memory of Dr Glyn O Phillips, the medal’s inaugural recipient in 2004. The award honours individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the Welsh language in science and technology.

Professor Davies is regarded as a leading researcher in her field and has combined her academic achievements with a commitment to widening opportunities for women in science. She was instrumental in establishing SwanStemWomen, an initiative providing mentoring, training and networking opportunities for women pursuing careers in STEM subjects.

Swansea University Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Boyle said the honour was richly deserved.

“As a research leader with an international reputation for her work on climate change, she has also ensured that the Welsh language remains central to her teaching, research and public engagement.

“She has an exceptional ability to explain complex scientific issues in an accessible way and has inspired generations of students and young scientists.”

Responding to the announcement, Professor Davies said: “It is a tremendous honour to receive this medal. I have long admired those who have received it before me, and it is a great privilege to join them.

“Receiving it at Eisteddfod y Garreg Las, the area where I grew up, makes it even more special.”

After graduating in Geography from Jesus College, Oxford, she completed a master’s degree and PhD at Royal Holloway, University of London. She joined Swansea University in 2004, was awarded a personal chair in 2012 and became Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research in 2026.

Alongside her internationally recognised climate change research and work developing Welsh-medium provision, she has supervised early-career researchers, served on the Academic Board of the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol and become a familiar media voice on climate science.

Professor Davies received the honour during a ceremony at Sfferen, the Science Village, on Thursday morning before a presentation in the Pavilion.