Theoretical chemist Paul Ayers has been awarded the Rutherford Memorial Medal by the Royal Society of Canada.

The award is given for outstanding research in chemistry or physics.

Ayers leads one of the largest theoretical research groups in the country and studies new methods for understanding, predicting, interpreting and quantifying chemical phenomena.

Ayers was recognized earlier this year when he became just the third McMaster faculty member to receive the Steacie Prize, widely recognized as Canada’s most prestigious award for young scientists and engineers.

In 2013, Ayers received the E.W.R. Steacie Memorial Fellowship and up to $250,000 to help fund his research.

Physics and Astronomy alumna Kate Ross also received the Alice Wilson Award in natural sciences. The award recognizes early career excellence for women. Ross spent five years at McMaster as a graduate student.

Both will receive their awards at a ceremony in Quebec this November.