Born: 1945
Died: 2016
Biography:
Jane Anne Plant CBE, FREng, FRSE, FRSA (1945–2016) was a leading geochemist, scientist, and author. Plant was a pioneer in the field of geochemical surveys and environmental surveys. She was Chief Scientist at the British Geological Survey and was a Professor of Geochemistry at Imperial College London. Plant was also highly involved in the Institution of Mining & Metallurgy (now Institute of Materials, Minerals, and Mining) where she played various roles, including a position on the Council. Notably, she became the first female President of the Institution of Mining & Metallurgy, serving from 2001 to 2002. This gave her an extensive network of key connections with government, industry, and academia.
Throughout her life, Jane Plant faced significant health challenges. Despite being diagnosed with cancer six times, she did not let this deter her scientific pursuits. In fact, her personal experience with cancer motivated her to study the link between dairy and breast cancer. Plant published several books on the subject, contributing to the understanding of nutrition and its potential impact on cancer development.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to Earth science, industry, and her pioneering research, Jane Plant was appointed a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 1997. This prestigious honor acknowledged her significant impact on the field of geochemistry and her dedication to promoting environmental health through her research.
Early Life:
Jane Plant was born in Woodville, Derbyshire, to Ralph and Marjorie Lunn, who were village shopkeepers. She grew up as the only child in a modest family. Plant’s academic journey began at Ashby de la Zouch Grammar School, where her passion for geology was ignited. In 1963, she enrolled at Liverpool University, where she excelled in her studies. Plant graduated with first-class honors in geology and even earned the prize for the best degree in her year. Her outstanding academic achievements foreshadowed the remarkable career she would later embark upon.
Career:
Jane Plant spent most of her career at the British Geological Survey (BGS), a renowned institution specializing in geological research. She joined the Institute for Geological Sciences, the predecessor of the BGS, in 1967 at the young age of 23. Plant’s early years at the BGS were marked by her leadership role in the geochemical reconnaissance program, which involved mapping the presence of various elements in the Scottish Highlands. Her groundbreaking work in this area set the stage for further research and exploration.
An exceptional scientist, Jane Plant became the first woman to be appointed to a Scientific Officer role at the BGS, a position typically held by men. Her appointment broke barriers and paved the way for further female representation in scientific positions. Plant’s expertise and dedication earned her a place in the Atomic Energy Section in London, headed by Stanley Bowie.
In 1977, Plant was awarded a PhD from the University of Leicester for her groundbreaking research on regional geochemical mapping in Great Britain, with a focus on sources of error. Her thesis, titled Regional Geochemical Mapping in Great Britain with Particular Reference to Sources of Error, demonstrated her meticulous and innovative approach to her work.
Plant’s most significant contribution to the field of geochemistry came through her development of the high-resolution BGS Geochemical Baseline of the Environment (G-BASE) program. Through this program, she successfully mapped various chemicals over the land surface, analyzing sediments, ore deposits, soils, and water samples. Plant’s work with G-BASE not only provided vital information for economic and environmental concerns but also had significant implications for human health.
In addition to her research on geochemical mapping, Jane Plant’s studies on health using her maps led to the creation of a new field in science — environmental health. Her findings, particularly regarding the Asian and Eastern European population’s vulnerability to certain diseases due to environmental factors, shed light on the broader impact of the environment on public health.
Jane Plant’s contributions to the scientific community extended beyond her groundbreaking research. She dedicated a considerable amount of time and effort to the Institution of Mining & Metallurgy (now Institute of Materials, Minerals, and Mining), an esteemed organization facilitating collaboration between the government, industry, and academia. Her involvement in various roles, including serving on the Council, undoubtedly helped bridge gaps and foster meaningful partnerships among these sectors.
Throughout her career, Jane Plant’s unwavering commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and her groundbreaking research earned her the respect and admiration of her peers. Her contributions to the field of geochemistry and environmental health continue to shape the scientific discourse, making her a true pioneer in her field.
Awards:
– Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) – 1997: Awarded in recognition of her contribution to Earth science and industry.