Northern Michigan University biology professor Neil Cumberlidge was recently awarded a Doctor of Science degree from the University of Hull in the United Kingdom. This higher doctorate, as opposed to an honorary doctorate, is based on a body of published work that established his authoritative standing in the field of African freshwater crab biology. He also holds a doctoral degree in zoology.

Cumberlidge's record of internationally recognized scholarship was judged by a committee of internal and external examiners to have made a substantial and sustained contribution to scientific knowledge beyond that required for a doctorate. Baroness Virginia Bottomley, the chancellor of the University of Hull, presented the degree to Cumberlidge at a congregation ceremony. Bottomley was a former cabinet minister in the governments of Margaret Thatcher and John Major.

“I am honored to receive this earned doctorate in recognition of my contributions to the field of African crustacean systematics,” Cumberlidge said.

Cumberlidge’s body of published work comprises more than 160 articles, including books, book chapters, edited volumes, journal articles and scientific reports. Nearly all of these works were published during Cumberlidge’s time at NMU, gaining attention for the university and its biology department.