St Andrews professor receives major honour

Professor N. Thomas Wright of the University of St Andrews has been awarded the Burkitt Medal for Biblical Studies by the British Academy.

Wright (65) is a Research Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity studies at St Mary’s College, and is a former Anglican Bishop.

The majority of his research and teaching revolves around the subject of Paul and his letters, Jesus and the Gospels in their first century contexts.

The Burkitt Medal, named in memory of its founder, biblical scholar and theologian Francis Crawford Burkitt FBA, was first awarded in 1923, and is given in recognition of ‘special service to Biblical Studies’.

It is given to academics in the field of the Old Testament in odd years and the New Testament in even years.

Professor Wright said:

“I am thrilled and astonished to be receiving the British Academy’s Burkitt Medal for Biblical Studies.

“This is a great honour, and is due in large measure to the wonderful support I have received since coming to St Andrews four years ago.”

This year, 19 recipients will receive one of the Academy’s 13 awards, with the official ceremony taking place on 25 November.

The awards will be presented by Academy President Lord Nicholas Stern.

Lord Stern said:

“These Prizes and Medals are an important means of celebrating exceptional academic achievement and are an essential part of the Academy’s work in recognising excellence across the humanities and social sciences.

“Our portfolio is steadily growing and I look forward to celebrating these outstanding contributions”.

ENDS

Prof Tom Wright is available for interview on [email protected] or 01334 462827

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Issued by the University of St Andrews Press Office

Contact Elliot Busby on [email protected] or 01334 462108