This is wonderful recognition of Richard’s contribution to the study of terrorism, political violence, Irish politics and history over many years.

Professor English's expertise lies in Irish history and conflict as well as the wider subject of international terrorism. In his more recent works, Professor English explores the response after 9/11 and its shortcomings, and argues that we cannot adequately respond to the practical challenge of terrorist violence around the world unless we are more honest about the precise nature of the phenomenon, and about explaining its true and complex causes.

Professor English is the author of eight books, including the award-winning studies Armed Struggle: The History of the IRA (2003) and Irish Freedom: The History of Nationalism in Ireland (2006).  His most recent book, Does Terrorism Work? A History, was published in 2016 by Oxford University Press.

Royal Irish Academy Gold Medals are sponsored by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and recognise leading scholars in Ireland whose work has made an international impact, demonstrating the global reach and recognition of the exceptional quality of scholarship taking place on this island.

The Gold Medals have become the ultimate accolade in scholarly achievement in Ireland.

Announcing the awarding of the Gold Medals to Professors English and Fusco, President of the Royal Irish Academy, Dr Mary Canning said:

"This is the first time that the awards have been presented to leading academics in the same institution in the same year and I congratulate these two exceptional recipients. The Academy wishes to thank the President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s for hosting today’s private ceremony."

Responding to the awarding of his Academy Gold Medal, Professor English commented:

"I am extremely honoured to receive the Royal Irish Academy's Gold Medal in the Social Sciences and I am very grateful to the Academy for this award.

“It's a pleasure also to thank Queen's University Belfast, where I've had the privilege of working for most of my academic career."

Professor Ian Greer, President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen's said:

"Queen's is renowned for excellence in scholarship and research on the island of Ireland and internationally. 

“I am delighted that these highly esteemed academics, Professor Richard English and Professor Vincent Fusco, have been honoured by the Royal Irish Academy for their outstanding academic research and achievements in the social sciences and engineering, respectively.

"This is a special year for our University as we mark the 175th anniversary of our foundation as one of three Queen’s Colleges in Ireland. It is fitting that two of our academics are being honoured with the highest accolade in scholarly achievement in Ireland in the same year we are celebrating 175 years of academic excellence.  

“I warmly congratulate each of them on this great honour."

Media

Media enquiries to Zara McBrearty at Queen’s Communications Office on 07795 676 858. For further information about the Royal Irish Academy, please contact: Aisling Roche on: 00 353 (0) 86 1938 263.