Queen Mary academic wins political studies prize

At the PSA’s Annual General Meeting in Liverpool this month, Prof Hutchings was named as the 2022/23 winner of the prestigious Isaiah Berlin Prize, which recognises outstanding professional contribution to the field of political studies.

Prof Hutchings came to Queen Mary University of London in 2014, bringing a wealth of expertise across political theory and international relations, and was Head of School from 2019 to 2020. As well as leading research into complex issues such as political violence and the ethics of war, she teaches a range of undergraduate modules and supervises numerous doctoral students.

This honour from the PSA follows other significant recognition of Prof Hutchings’ impact, including the inaugural British International Studies prize for Distinguished Contribution to the Profession and Distinguished Scholar Awards from the International Studies Association. Prof Hutchings has published 10 books and many more journal articles, the latest of which won an award from the American Political Science Association.

Award judges said: “In her academic work, Professor Hutchings has made outstanding contributions through works exploring political theory, feminism and world politics – developing an international reputation for scholarship. As a Deputy Chair and then Chair of the Politics and International Studies sub-panel for REF21, Professor Hutchings also provided exceptional leadership for the profession.”

Prof Roger Awan-Scully, Chair of the PSA, added: “The PSA thanks you for your outstanding contribution to our discipline and wishes you continued success in the future.”

On receiving the prize, Prof Hutchings commented: “It’s a huge honour and privilege to be given this award. As someone who works in the fields of political philosophy and theory, it’s particularly special for me to receive an award named in honour of such a significant political thinker as Isaiah Berlin.”