?width=300&height=308)
Prof Adams is a Distinguished Professor, Deputy Director of the Institute for Coastal and Marine Research (CMR) and a Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation South African Research Chair Initiative holder in Shallow Water Ecosystems.
The SASAqS gold medal is the society’s highest honour and is awarded only on rare occasions to recognise an exceptionally high standard of research in the aquatic sciences, or an exceptionally valuable contribution to the management, conservation or development of aquatic ecosystems over an extended period.
Prof Adams’ research has fundamentally advanced the understanding of estuarine ecology, freshwater requirements, eutrophication, harmful algal blooms, blue carbon ecosystems, climate change resilience and coastal restoration.
Beyond scientific excellence, her work has consistently influenced environmental management, national policy, restoration practice and global sustainability initiatives. With more than 200 peer-reviewed publications, extensive international collaborations and leadership in global assessments, Prof Adams has established herself as one of South Africa’s foremost coastal scientists.
Dr Tarryn Botha, Chair of the SASAqS Medal Committee said in her citation at the conference,
“Some careers shape a discipline. Others shape a generation. Tonight’s recipient has done both. For more than three decades, this scientist has stood at the forefront of estuarine and coastal ecosystem research, transforming our understanding of wetlands, estuaries, blue carbon, climate resilience and ecosystem restoration. (Her) research has influenced not only science, but also environmental policy, conservation practice and international climate discussions.”
Dr Botha added that with more than 290 scientific publications, international collaborations spanning continents, and leadership on … the world’s most influential scientific programmes, Prof Adams has helped place African coastal science firmly on the global stage.
“Dozens of Master’s and PhD graduates, countless early-career researchers, and an entire community of scientists have benefited from (her) mentorship, generosity and unwavering commitment to excellence. The SASAqS Gold Medal is our highest honour. It recognises a lifetime of scientific excellence, leadership and service. Tonight, we celebrate a career that has strengthened aquatic science, shaped environmental management, and left an enduring legacy for South Africa and the world.”
Prof Adams delivered a keynote address titled, “Knowledge to action: estuary restoration and management”, highlighting the translation of scientific research into practical restoration and management solutions for South Africa's estuaries.
She said, “this award is a great honour as it celebrates the many years of research and science to action of my Shallow Water Ecosystem research group. Thank you to my past and present students, collaborators, and to SASAqS. May our society grow from strength to strength.”
Prof Adams has through her supervision of 46 MSc and 26 PhD graduates, as well as working with numerous postdoctoral fellows and early-career researchers, helped shape South Africa’s estuarine science community, while building research capacity across the African continent.
The conference also showcased the breadth of CMR research, with Institute members and students presenting their work across estuarine ecology, seagrass conservation, coastal ecosystems and aquatic biodiversity.
Director of the CMR, Dr Denise Schael said, “the CMR proudly congratulates Professor Janine Adams on being awarded the Southern African Society for Aquatic Scientists Gold Medal, which reflects not only an outstanding individual career but also the enduring impact of research that connects science, policy and practice to support the sustainable management of South Africa's aquatic ecosystems. It is a fitting recognition of a career dedicated to advancing knowledge while ensuring that science makes a tangible difference for society and the environment.”
A few weeks ago, an international report on the state of the oceans, “The Starfish Barometer 2026”, which Prof Adams’ contributed to, was published in the respected, State of the Planet journal. She said then, “the Starfish Barometer provides an overview of the ocean state, identifying where global actions are urgently needed”.
Drawing on the latest peer-reviewed science and international assessments, the report highlights accelerating ocean change, rising societal and economic impacts, and a widening gap between human pressures and protection efforts.