Vignette 69: Geologist, explorer and professor

Explorer and scientist Sir Douglas Mawson (1882–1958) made exceptional contributions to the fields of geology, cartography, meteorology, geomagnetism, and marine biology. 

Mawson earned a science degree in geology from the University of Sydney in 1905 before conducting research in Vanuatu and outback Australia.

Associated with the University for 50 years as a lecturer and Professor in mineralogy and geology, Mawson was first appointed in 1905 and retired in 1952. His academic career was interrupted by three expeditions to the Antarctic as well as his service during the First World War. 

Mawson joined Ernest Shackleton’s British Antarctic Expedition, making the first ascent of Mount Erebus before reaching the South Magnetic Pole. Mawson later headed the Australasian Antarctic Expedition of 1911–1914 and the British, Australian, and New Zealand Antarctic Research Expedition (BANZARE) from 1929 to 1931. For his contributions to Antarctic exploration, Mawson was knighted in 1914.

The University has marked his inspirational contributions to research and education through the Mawson Laboratories, Mawson Lecture Theatre, and the Mawson Geo Centre. The University holds a collection of artefacts from his expeditions in the Tate Museum.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Leading for the future. p.99