We are pleased to share that Spark Senior Scientist Ben Poulter, PhD, has been awarded the Copernicus Medal 2026 for his outstanding contributions to model, monitor, and measure global greenhouse gas emissions.

Awarded annually to a single scientist, the Copernicus Medal recognizes exceptional scientific leadership that advances international collaboration and understanding in planetary, space, or geosciences. Ben received this honor for his leadership on global efforts to quantify greenhouse gas emissions and removals. This includes his work on the Global Carbon Project’s Global Methane Budget, the REgional Carbon Cycle Assessment and Processes study (RECCAP2), and other efforts.

At Spark, Ben leads our Warming-Induced Emissions program, helping improve understanding of how global warming contributes to increased emissions from natural systems, such as wetlands, permafrost, oceans, and soils—and how improved monitoring and modeling of these feedbacks can inform climate policy and potential response options.

Ben’s career spans leadership in climate science and public service, including nearly a decade at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center and service in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy as Deputy Director for Greenhouse Gas Measurements, Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification. His work has contributed to major international assessments, including IPCC Assessment Reports, the U.S. National Climate Assessment, and the Global Methane Budget.

Congratulations to Ben on this well-deserved honor.