2016 Outstanding Undergraduate Research Award

In 2015, the Office of Undergraduate Research introduced the Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher Award to recognize an outstanding undergraduate researcher from each college/school at the U. Faculty mentors are invited to nominate students, and awardees are selected by committee. The criteria for the Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher Award are:

• Record of sustained commitment to developing research skills and knowledge under the supervision of a faculty mentor
• Evidence of independent and critical thinking
• Active participation in research-related activities on campus
• Positive contributions to the research culture of the Department, College, and University

This year's award for the College of Mines and Earth Sciences has gone to Benjamin White, Geology and Geophysics, nominate by his faculty mentor Dr. Jeff Moore.

Dr. Moore writes, "Ben has a truly unique enthusiasm; almost nothing can sink his positive attitude (it is really remarkable). He has become a model of personal growth of a young undergraduate researcher, initially joining our team as a hired gun, later participating in UROP, developing his own research sites where only he has ever collected ambient seismic data, then essentially prodding me to teach him more in an independent study course, followed by helping me organize and implement one of the more serious field campaigns I have ever participated in. His growth, drive and enthusiasm, as well as logistical and scientific contributions make Ben a stand-out case of success in undergraduate research.”