Obituary for Professor Andrew Goudie (1945-2026) – Former President of the International Association of Geomorphologists
On 8 October 2026, the international geomorphological community lost one of its most distinguished scholars, Professor Andrew Goudie, former President of the International Association of Geomorphologists (IAG) from 2005 to 2009 and Professor Emeritus of Geography at the University of Oxford.
Professor Goudie was an internationally renowned geographer and geomorphologist whose remarkable career made lasting contributions to the understanding of arid environments, landscape evolution, and environmental change. Beyond his outstanding scientific achievements, he will be remembered for his intellectual curiosity, generosity, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to advancing geomorphology worldwide.
Born on 21 August 1945 in Cheltenham, England, Andrew Goudie devoted much of his academic career to the University of Oxford. He held numerous distinguished positions, including Professor of Geography at Hertford College, Head of the School of Geography and the Environment, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, and Master of St Cross College. He subsequently served as Director of the Oxford China Centre.
His scientific interests were extensive, with particular expertise in desert geomorphology and arid environments. His research encompassed dune systems, desert depressions, mega-yardangs, dust storms, and landscape dynamics over Quaternary timescales. He was also a pioneer in investigating human impacts on the environment. A prolific author, he published approximately 40 books and more than 200 scientific articles, influencing generations of geographers and geomorphologists across the world.
His remarkable scientific contributions received widespread recognition, including the Founders’ Gold Medal of the Royal Geographical Society (1991), an honorary Doctor of Science degree from the University of Oxford (2002), and the Farouk El-Baz Prize for Desert Research (2007). In addition to his presidency of the IAG, he held leadership positions in numerous scientific organisations, including the Geographical Association, the British Geomorphological Research Group, and the British Institute in Eastern Africa. He was named an Honorary Fellow of the IAG during the 8th International Conference on Geomorphology in Paris in 2013.
Professor Goudie’s influence extended far beyond his publications and institutional achievements. His colleagues and fellow IAG Presidents remember him as an exceptional scientist, an inspiring mentor, and a generous friend.
Olav Slaymaker, IAG President from 1997 to 2001, first met Andrew in 1974 during an international geomorphological field excursion in Israel and the Sinai Desert. He recalled Andrew’s remarkable intellectual potential and enthusiasm, describing his special ability to recognise emerging directions in geomorphological research and contribute authoritative books and reviews. He particularly remembered Andrew’s integrity, generosity, and excellence.
Michael Crozier, IAG President from 2009 to 2013, remembered Andrew’s clarity of thought, breadth of knowledge, extraordinary work ethic, and distinctive sense of humour. He also highlighted Andrew’s highly productive presidency of the IAG, during which the Association expanded its activities internationally, including regional conferences in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, and Brașov, Romania. Reflecting on his passing, Crozier invoked a New Zealand Māori expression, “kua hinga he totara nui”, meaning that a great tree of the forest has fallen.
Eric Fouache, IAG President from 2013 to 2017, recalled Andrew as a demanding yet deeply compassionate scientist who cared greatly about his students and colleagues. He particularly remembered Andrew’s enthusiastic support for the French Geomorphology Group’s successful proposal to host the 8th International Conference on Geomorphology in Paris in 2013.
Mauro Soldati, IAG President from 2017 to 2022, described Andrew’s scientific publications as milestones in geomorphology. He also expressed gratitude for Andrew’s encouragement and trust in appointing him as Training Officer within the IAG Executive Committee, remembering his ability to approach challenging matters with kindness and effectiveness.
Sunil Kumar De, IAG President from 2022 to 2026, recalled the encouragement and guidance he received from Andrew throughout his academic career. Their first meeting at the 5th International Conference of Geomorphology in 2001 left a lasting impression. Andrew subsequently encouraged his involvement in the IAG and provided opportunities for leadership within its Working Groups. His advice on the importance of academic excellence and sustained international engagement remained an enduring source of inspiration.
Mihai Micu, IAG President from 2026 to 2030, remembered meeting Andrew for the first time during the 2008 Regional Conference on Geomorphology in Brașov, Romania. A memorable journey through the Carpathian Mountains provided an opportunity to discover not only an outstanding scientist but also a true gentleman.
These personal reflections demonstrate the profound influence Professor Goudie had on the international geomorphological community. His legacy is reflected not only in his pioneering research, extensive publications, and leadership of scientific institutions, but also in the generations of researchers whom he encouraged, supported, and inspired.
The International Association of Geomorphologists mourns the loss of an extraordinary scholar, dedicated leader, mentor, and friend. His contributions to geomorphology and his commitment to fostering international scientific collaboration will continue to inspire future generations.
The IAG extends its deepest condolences to his wife, Professor Heather Viles, his daughters, grandchildren, family, friends, and colleagues worldwide.
With tributes from Olav Slaymaker, Michael Crozier, Eric Fouache, Mauro Soldati, Sunil Kumar De, and Mihai Micu, former and current Presidents of the International Association of Geomorphologists.