Professor Mackay has gained recognition and notoriety for his research in environmental chemistry, in particular the "Mackay Models" which predict the long-term behaviour, fate and distribution of chemicals in the environment. The models are widely used in universities, industry, and national and international government organizations.

Trent University President Bonnie Patterson applauded the nomination of Professor Mackay as one of the finalists for the Gerhard Herzberg Canada Gold Medal for Science and Engineering. "The entire university community extends its congratulations to Professor Mackay today," commented President Patterson. "Today's announcement from NSERC follows close on the heels of the prestigious $130,000 Honda Prize, awarded to Professor Mackay earlier this month. These announcements demonstrate just how meaningful a contribution Professor Mackay's research is to future environmental stewardship. He is an exemplary ambassador of Trent University-a symbol of all we stand for as a liberal arts and science institution."

The two other nominees for the Herzberg Medal are Richard Puddephatt of the University of Western Ontario and David Schindler of the University of Alberta. Of the three candidates, Dr. Brzustowski said: "These are individuals who have made exceptional contributions to knowledge and the country. The finalists have excelled in their research and in their influence in the research community, and one of them will go on to win an award named after one of our greatest science heroes - Dr. Gerhard Herzberg." The Herzberg award was created in honour of Nobel Prize winner Gerhard Herzberg.