James Harrison was a scientist and public servant, born in Canada, and the director of the Geological Survey of Canada, as well as the Assistant Deputy Minister of the Department of Energy, Mines, and Resources. He studied at both the University of Manitoba and Queen’s University. As Assistant Director General for Science and Technology, Unesco in 1973-76, Dr. Harrison directed programs in teaching of science and engineering.
He was President of the Canadian Commission for Unesco, Chairman of the Board of the Science Institute of Northwest Territories, and Chairman of the International Group under ICSU on Disposal of Toxic Wastes. He was also a Fellow of the Arctic Institute of North America and consultant on development of natural resources.
Harrison was awarded the Logan Medal by the Geological Association of Canada in 1969, a high honor from the group.