Meteorology building renamed after eminent professor

The University of Reading’s Meteorology building has been renamed after one of its most distinguished professors: Sir Brian Hoskins. 

The building was officially renamed the Brian Hoskins building at a formal ceremony on Tuesday 13 September, attended by Professor Hoskins and his family and colleagues from the University. 

Professor Hoskins has been a member of the University of Reading since 1971, during which time he began the Department’s growth into the major global force it is today. 

He served as Head of Department for Meteorology and was involved in the planning for the construction of the Meteorology building that will bear his name. He is now an Emeritus Professor. 

Professor Hoskins’ scientific accomplishments centre on deepening our understanding of weather and climate variability. A mathematician by training, his research has focused on understanding atmospheric motion from the scale of weather fronts to that of the Earth.

He is best known for his work on the mathematical theory of extratropical cyclones and how weather fronts are produced. His research spans many areas of meteorology, including the Indian monsoon and global warming, and he was a contributor to the Stern Review and the IPCC Fourth Assessment Report.

Research and teaching in Meteorology at Reading continues to be underpinned by his rigorous scientific approach and commitment to international collaborations with organisations including the Met Office and the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). 

Professor Hoskins has held prominent roles in many significant institutions, including the Royal Meteorological Society, World Climate Research Programme, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and as an independent advisor to the UK government on climate science and policy. 

He was knighted in 2007 for services to the environment. 

Professor Robert Van de Noort, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading, said “Professor Sir Brian Hoskins is the pre-eminent dynamical meteorologist of his generation. But it is not just his research and leadership that has made him so central to the development of Meteorology at Reading.

“He has also been a dedicated and skilled teacher, supervisor, mentor and research colleague, with many members of the department, including current senior academics, having benefited from his clear and kind advice. 

“People who have spent time in the Department often remark on what a fun and exciting place it is to work and study. The support of Professor Sir Brian and his wife Jackie for departmental life, from research and teaching to pantomimes, barbecues and the cricket team, are a huge part of that success.”