It is with deep sadness that we received the news of the death of Professor Harold G. Marshall, who passed away on 22 April at the age of 96—an outstanding scientist, eminent phycologist and world-class phytoplankton researcher, as well as a man of extraordinary kindness and modesty.
Professor Marshall was associated with Old Dominion University in Norfolk, USA, for many years, serving as Chair of the School of Biological Sciences for 21 years (1963–2013). He belonged to a generation of scientists who laid the foundations of modern hydrobiology and phytoplankton ecology.
His scientific interests encompassed the biology and ecology of algae in both freshwater and marine environments. He conducted research on the phytoplankton of lakes, including Drummond Lake in Virginia; however, the most significant part of his work consisted of many years of research into estuarine and marine ecosystems, particularly the famous Chesapeake Bay – the largest estuary in the United States. For decades, he monitored the bay and its tributaries, studying the dynamics and ecology of phytoplankton and the phenomenon of harmful algal blooms caused by cyanobacteria or dinoflagellates.
A special place in his scientific work was occupied by research into toxic dinoflagellates, particularly those of the genus Pfiesteria. He led numerous projects devoted to the biology, ecology and toxicity of these organisms, making an enormous contribution to our understanding of the mechanisms underlying dangerous algal blooms.
His research into picoplankton and neuston, as well as his immense contribution to the development of aquatic microorganism ecology, will also be remembered in the scientific community.
Professor Harold G. Marshall was also a great friend of Poland and Polish science. For many years, he collaborated with the Department of Hydrobiology at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, particularly with Professor Lubomira Burchardt. Thanks to his commitment, many young scientists were able to develop their research interests, gain experience and learn about world-class science beyond the country’s borders. In recognition of his achievements, he was awarded the Adam Mickiewicz University Medal in 2005 for fostering scientific cooperation and his immense contribution to the education of young researchers.
Many of us had the opportunity to work with Professor Marshall here in Poland, as well as while visiting Norfolk at Old Dominion University. His students came to Poland, forming friendships that continue to this day.
For many of us, however, Professor Marshall was more than just an eminent scholar. He was a mentor and a man who could inspire others not only with his knowledge, but above all with his attitude. He could talk with equal enthusiasm about phytoplankton ecology and everyday life. In the world of science, he remained a model scholar – outstanding, yet devoid of academic haughtiness, warm-hearted and genuinely kind to people.
His passing is a great loss to the global community of hydrobiologists and phycologists, but also to all those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him. He will remain in our memories as an outstanding researcher, a mentor to many generations of scientists, and a man who built bridges between people, universities and countries.
We extend our deepest condolences to Professor Marshall’s family, colleagues, students and friends.
On behalf of the Board of the Polish Phycological Society
Prof. Elżbieta Wilk-Woźniak – President of the Polish Phycological Society
Prof. Beata Messyasz – v-ce President of the Polish Phycological Society
Prof. Mikołaj Kokociński – the society’s treasurer