Professor Bob Scholes
The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) has announced that Professor of Systems Ecology and climate resilience research organisation Global Change Institute (GCI) director Professor Bob Scholes had passed away on April 28.
"The distinguished Scholes was of the world’s leading scientists on climate change. The Wits community is shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of such a giant in the field of climate science, not only in South Africa, but in the world. Professor Scholes was a true leader, a conscientious and dedicated scientist and a teacher to all," the university said in a tribute.
Scholes was among the top 1% of environmental scientists worldwide, based on citation frequency, and published widely in the fields of savanna ecology, global change and earth observation. He also led several high-profile studies and held high-profile positions in the fields of climate change and environmental studies globally.
Scholes was one of the lead authors in the assessment reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change on the present and future impacts of climate change and how the world can adapt to, or reduce it. He has also served as a member of the steering committees of several global earth observation bodies.
"The Wits community is saddened by the loss of Professor Scholes, and extends its sincere condolences to Mary, his family, friends and colleagues, and those who knew him well, during this very difficult time."