2024 Walter Munk Medal

N. Ross Chapman

For applications of advanced signal processing approaches to acoustical oceanography and contributions to geo-acoustic inversions

The Oceanography Society (TOS) congratulates N. Ross Chapman for being selected as the 2024 recipient of The Oceanography Society’s Walter Munk Medal. The citation on his certificate recognizes him for applications of advanced signal processing approaches to acoustical oceanography and contributions to geo-acoustic inversions.

Among Dr. Chapman’s many achievements, the Medal Selection Committee noted his extraordinary contributions to geo-acoustic inversions, acoustic propagation modeling, ambient noise measurements, detection and characterization of gas hydrate deposits in marine sediments, and early innovation of advanced signal processing techniques to enable advances in acoustical oceanography and underwater acoustics. The committee was also impressed with his strong overall publication record and commitment to excellence in advising and mentoring the next generation of Ocean Acousticians.

Dr. Chapman is Professor Emeritus at the School of Earth and Ocean Sciences, University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. He received his BSc in physics from McMaster University and a Ph.D. in physics from the University of British Columbia. He is a Fellow of the Acoustical Society of America and the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, and was Editor in Chief of the IEEE Journal of Oceanic Engineering.