October 23, 2026
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC — Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society is pleased to announce that Rosina Bierbaum, a distinguished climate scientist, policy expert, and longtime advocate for the role of science in addressing global challenges, will receive the 2026 Sigma Xi Gold Key Award.
As the Society’s highest honor, the Gold Key Award celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of science and to the mission of Sigma Xi. Bierbaum will be recognized on November 5 during “Curious Conversations,” a special interview session with former Sigma Xi president and fellow Robert T. Pennock during the 2026 International Forum on Research Excellence (IFoRE).
Bierbaum is Professor and Dean Emerita of the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability and Research Professor Emerita and Senior Fellow at the University of Maryland’s Center for Global Sustainability. Her work focuses on the intersection of science and policy, particularly climate change adaptation and mitigation at the national and international levels. Her career exemplifies the power of scientific expertise to inform policy, strengthen international collaboration, and address some of the most consequential environmental challenges facing society.
“Dr. Bierbaum exemplifies the scientific leadership the Gold Key Award was created to recognize,” said Sigma Xi executive director and CEO Jamie Vernon. “Throughout her distinguished career, she has advanced our understanding of complex environmental challenges while helping bridge the worlds of scientific research, public policy, and international cooperation. Her commitment to translating scientific knowledge into meaningful action reflects the very best of Sigma Xi’s mission to advance research for the benefit of society.”
"Receiving the Gold Key Award is an honor I could never have imagined as a graduate student 40 years ago,” said Bierbaum. "Since my mentor, Dr. Bentley Glass, first nominated me for associate membership, my career has come full circle. From discovering knowledge, to solving pressing problems, and eventually mentoring the next generation of environmental leaders, this recognition means more to me than words can express, and I accept it with profound gratitude."
Bierbaum’s career has extended well beyond academia. She spent two decades working in the legislative and executive branches of the U.S. government and led the Environment Division of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. She also served on President Barack Obama’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology and as an adaptation fellow at the World Bank.
Bierbaum has played an important role in bringing scientific expertise to international efforts addressing climate change and sustainable development. She chaired the Scientific and Technical Advisory Panel of the Global Environment Facility and has authored or contributed to major climate assessments and reports for organizations including the United Nations, World Bank, and U.S. government. She also co-chaired the international scientific expert group behind Confronting Climate Change: Avoiding the Unmanageable and Managing the Unavoidable, a collaboration between Sigma Xi and the United Nations Foundation.
Through her research, public service, and leadership, Bierbaum has consistently demonstrated how scientists can contribute not only to discovery, but also to the decisions and partnerships that translate knowledge into meaningful action. Her career reflects Sigma Xi’s longstanding commitment to advancing science and strengthening the connection between scientific knowledge and society.