Joanna Burger, Distinguished Professor of Life Sciences, was awarded the Brewster Medal by the American Ornithologists’ Union (AOU) at its 127th annual meeting on August 15, 2009.  The AOU is the largest international society devoted to all aspects of avian science.   This is the highest medal of the society and is awarded for outstanding scientific research contributions to avian biology.  The bronze medal is named after William Brewster, one of the AOU founders in 1883.  Dr. Burger received the award for her extensive scientific contributions to behavior, ecology, and ecotoxicology, particularly of seabirds, and her mentorship of more than 50 graduate students. 


President Jed Burtt presented the medal to Professor Burger with this commendation:

The American Ornithologists Union honors Joanna Burger for her thorough and insightful body of work on seabird behavior and ecology.  Through her commitment to excellence, exceptional dedication to ornithology, professionalism and work ethic for several decades she has served as a role model to many young women ornithologists and an inspiration to her colleagues.  The American Ornithologists Union is proud to recognize Joanna Burger as a research scientist, teacher and mentor who continues to increase our knowledge of natural history, behavior and ecology of birds.