Open University mathematics professor receives society’s top award

Posted on 3 July 2026 • Science, maths, computing and technology

The Open University (OU) is delighted to announce that its Professor of Pure Mathematics, Gwyneth Stallard OBE, has been awarded the Senior Anne Bennett Prize by the London Mathematical Society (LMS). The award is for her unwavering promotion of and support for women in mathematics, and for her important contributions to complex dynamics.

The Senior Anne Bennett Prize is awarded triennially to a mathematician in recognition of their work, influence on or service to mathematics, particularly in relation to advancing the careers of women.

On receiving the award, Professor Stallard said:

“I am delighted and honoured to receive this prize. Supporting the careers of women in mathematics is something that I feel passionately about and I am incredibly grateful for the support of the very many people I have worked with at the LMS to bring about positive change.

“I am also grateful to the OU’s School of Mathematics and Statistics for their amazing support throughout my career, enabling me and others to flourish.”

The LMS is the main UK learned society for mathematics, founded in 1865. Professor Stallard served on its Council from 2014-2019 and chaired its Women in Mathematics Committee from 2006-2015. In this latter role she introduced a range of initiatives, most notably the Good Practice Scheme which was established to support departments in improving their culture and practices. This included the production of a national benchmarking report, launched at the House of Commons.

Research and leadership in complex dynamics

The Good Practice Scheme supports departments in applying for Athena Swan awards which recognise their commitment to and progress in advancing gender equality. At the OU, Professor Stallard has successfully led the School of Mathematics and Statistics in three successful Athena Swan submissions, achieving Silver in 2022. She is currently the OU’s Academic Lead for Athena Swan.

Professor’s Stallard’s research in complex dynamics was first recognised by an LMS Whitehead Prize in 2000. She has gone on to establish and co-lead the highly successful complex dynamics group at the OU with her collaborator Professor Phil Rippon, securing four EPSRC grants worth over £1million in total to support the group’s research.

The citation for the Prize concludes:

“As a leading member of the British mathematical community, Professor Stallard’s service has been exemplary. Her sustained efforts to advance gender equity have delivered transformative benefits across the whole of the UK mathematical community.”