Rising Researcher Nominations

The nomination period for the spring 2024 UMass Amherst Rising Researcher student award program has closed.

OVERVIEW

The Rising Researcher student acknowledgement program is designed to raise the profile of our most promising undergraduate students and to publicly acknowledge their excellent work. This program is co-supported by University Relations, Research & Engagement, and the Commonwealth Honors College.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE AWARD?

Eligible students will be exceptional undergraduates, identified by their faculty mentor/advisor, who have demonstrated leadership and externally visible impact in their chosen area of research and scholarship. Impact can take the form of research results/scholarly publication (peer-reviewed publications, books or book chapters, compositions or performances, or productions are particularly valued). Additional accomplishments of interest are papers at national meetings, innovation/entrepreneurial activities that lead to the development of technology or formation of a business. We seek to highlight a diverse representation of undergraduates; nomination of ALANA students is highly encouraged.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO SUBMIT A NOMINATION?

Faculty members are encouraged to nominate eligible students who are under their supervision. Students are required to submit supporting documentation.

PROCESS

Calls for nomination will be issued twice a year at the beginning of spring and fall semesters. Faculty members are encouraged to nominate eligible students who they advise/mentor. It is particularly helpful for the nominator to provide the context for the research accomplishments that form the basis for the nomination. Nominations submitted by faculty members or administrators other than the student’s advisor are also permitted, however, they must include adequate information about the nominee’s research and scholarly accomplishments on which the selection committee can base their decision.

RECOGNITION

Students receive an acrylic award, publicity about their achievement in campus communications, and an opportunity to meet the Chancellor.

Questions? Contact Lauren Rubenstein.