Dr Giles, a lecturer in the university¡¯s earth sciences department, was killed in a crash involving a lorry in the Victoria area of the city on her way to work on 8 April.

In a message to staff and students, head of department Philip Meredith expressed great sadness at the news, calling Dr Giles a talented friend and colleague ¡°with a bright future ahead of her¡±.

The UCL graduate had forged a career in polar oceanography at the institution, including being awarded a personal fellowship from the Natural Environment Research Council. She had also recently been awarded a lectureship at UCL.

Dr Giles¡¯ tragic death comes soon after the passing of the head of her research group, 49-year-old Seymour Laxon, who died following an accident on New Year¡¯s Day.

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Professor Meredith said that following his death, Dr Giles, who was in her thirties, had taken on many commitments in her research group with ¡°bravery and sense of purpose¡±.

¡°It was clear that she was ready to provide the next generation of leadership in that field. This makes it all the more difficult for us to accept that Katharine won¡¯t now have the opportunity to reach the heights she was sure to achieve,¡± he added.

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In a statement, her family added: ¡°Katharine was a talented scientist responsible for groundbreaking work on global warming. Her family are very grateful for all the support and appreciation shown to them over this tragic loss.¡±

elizabeth.gibney@tsleducation.com