The pioneering work of University of Essex academics Professor David Lockwood and Professor Ray Pahl has been recognised by lifetime achievement awards from the British Sociological Association (BSA).

Professor Lockwood joined Essex in 1968 and during his long and influential career at the University he was Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Dean of Social Sciences and Head of the Department of Sociology. He continues to be active in research and remains a Visiting Professor at the Institute for Social and Economic Research (ISER).

Professor Pahl’s association with the University of Essex began in the 1980s when he was part of the team that set up the British Household Panel Study. Throughout his career Professor Pahl has been committed to developing public engagement with sociology and ensuring the value of sociological research is understood by decision makers.

The lifetime achievement awards were established by the BSA to mark its 60th anniversary this year.

Professor Eamonn Carrabine, Head of the Department of Sociology, said: “David Lockwood is one of the foremost sociologists of his generation and his scholarship has made a lasting contribution to the discipline. Indeed, his path-breaking work on affluence, class structure and social stratification continues to shape the field, while his overall commitment to empirical and theoretical rigour remains inspirational.

“Throughout his career he has maintained the highest levels of scholarship and it is entirely fitting that the BSA should recognise his achievements in this way. We are delighted for him, immensely proud that he has received this award and grateful for his distinguished service.”

Dr Heather Laurie, Director of ISER, said: "Ray Pahl’s contribution to sociological research and to ISER is enormous. He conducted ground breaking research in his early career on urban sociology and the division of labour and his creativity has continued undimmed with his more recent work on friendship. Ray is a wonderful colleague and we congratulate him on being recognised by his peers in this way.”