President Donald J. Trump announced the recipients of the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). The PECASE is the highest honor bestowed by the United States Government to outstanding scientists and engineers who are beginning their independent research careers and who show exceptional promise for leadership in science and technology.
College of Engineering professors selected include:
- Mark Davenport, associate professor in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, nominated by the National Science Foundation
- Matthew McDowell, assistant professor in the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and School of Materials Science and Engineering, nominated by the Department of Defense
Established in 1996, the PECASE acknowledges the contributions scientists and engineers have made to the advancement of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and to community service as demonstrated by scientific leadership, public education, and community outreach. The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy coordinates the PECASE with participating departments and agencies. The PECASE Awards are intended to recognize some of the finest scientists and engineers who, while early in their research careers, show exceptional potential for leadership at the frontiers of scientific knowledge during the twenty-first century. The Awards foster innovative and far-reaching developments in science and technology, increase awareness of careers in science and engineering, give recognition to the scientific missions of participating agencies, enhance connections between fundamental research and national goals, and highlight the importance of science and technology for the nation's future. The awards are conferred annually at the White House following recommendations from participating agencies.
The agencies participating in the PECASE Awards program are:
- Department of Agriculture
- Department of Commerce
- Department of Defense
- Department of Energy
- Department of Education
- Department of Health and Human Services: National Institutes of Health
- Department of Veterans Affairs
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- National Science Foundation