• The IDAEA-CSIC researcher is recognised for his career in the study of air pollution and air quality.

  • The University highlights his collaboration in key environmental projects for the province and his contribution to scientific research.

Today, the University of Huelva (UHU) awards its highest distinction, the UHU Medal, to geologist and researcher Xavier Querol Carceller, in recognition of his extensive career and contributions to the field of air pollution.

Xavier Querol, born in Morella in 1963, holds a degree and a PhD in Geological Sciences from the University of Barcelona, having received the Extraordinary Award in both qualifications. After completing his postdoctoral training at the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and the Natural Environment Research Council in the United Kingdom, he joined the Institute of Earth Sciences Jaume Almera (CSIC) as a research professor in 1994. He is currently a professor at the Institute of Environmental Diagnosis and Water Studies (IDAEA-CSIC) in Barcelona.

Throughout his career, Querol has focused his research on air pollution, particularly on aerosols and their impact on air quality and climate. He has been a member of advisory boards for the European Union, the United Nations, and the World Health Organization on air quality issues. His work has been recognised with multiple awards, including the Rey Jaime I Award for Environmental Protection in 2013, the National Research Award Alejandro Malaspina in 2020, and the Carmina Virgili Award in 2019.

The University of Huelva has highlighted Querol’s collaboration with the institution since its foundation, particularly in research projects aimed at addressing environmental challenges in the province. Furthermore, he was a driving force behind the creation of the Associated Unit to CSIC dedicated to the study of environmental pollution.

The awarding of the UHU Medal to Xavier Querol highlights his commitment to research and improving air quality, as well as his dedication to training new generations of scientists in the field of environmental sciences.