Ian Crawford

Prof. Ian Crawford holds the position of Professor of Planetary Science and Astrobiology at Birkbeck, University of London. He is also an Honorary Associate Professor at University College London's Department of Physics and Astronomy. His research spans planetary science (particularly lunar geology and exploration), astrobiology, and space policy. Notable roles include chairing the Science Team for the Chandrayaan-1 X-ray spectrometer and co-investigating ESA's SMART-1 mission.

Education: Ph.D. (Astrophysics) from University College London (1988), M.Sc. (Geophysics and Planetary Physics) from the University of Newcastle (1983), and B.Sc. (Astronomy) from University College London (1982).

Research focuses on lunar evolution, astrobiological analog environments (e.g., Iceland's hydrothermal systems), and the societal implications of space exploration. He advocates for increased international collaboration in space missions and chairs committees like the UK Space Agency's Space Exploration Advisory Committee (2020–2023).

His awards include the 2023 Michael J. Wargo NASA Exploration Science Award and the 2021 Royal Astronomical Society Service Award. He has authored over 130 publications, including works on lunar resource utilization, astrobiological detection strategies, and space governance.

Crawford has supervised 13 PhD students and teaches modules like 'Remote Sensing and Planetary Surfaces' and 'Introduction to Planetary Science'. He actively participates in global initiatives like the Royal Society's 'Astronomy from the Moon' conference and is a fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and British Interplanetary Society.