José Xavier Awarded with Martha T. Muse Prize

Dr. José Xavier from the Institute of Marine Research of the University of Coimbra in Portugal and the British Antarctic Survey in UK has been awarded the prestigious 2011 Martha T. Muse Prize for Science and Policy in Antarctica (www.museprize.org). Beginning with his doctoral research (Ph.D. Cambridge University, 2003), Dr. Xavier has conducted outstanding research on the predator-prey dynamics that sustain populations of albatrosses, penguins and other top predators in the Southern Ocean. One example of his leadership in this field is his recent publication of a comprehensive monograph on the prey of top predators that will be a great aid to many researchers. The Selection Committee of leading Antarctic scientists and policy makers also cited his leadership in the establishment of a new and thriving Antarctic research program in Portugal during the International Polar Year (IPY, 2007-2008) and in launching a highly successful educational program, LATITUDE 60! during the IPY.