Skip to content Skip to main navigation Report an accessibility issue

Research Mentor Award

This student-nominated award recognizes University of Tennessee, Knoxville faculty members and graduate students who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to mentoring undergraduate researchers. Faculty must be nominated by at least two undergraduate students, with at least one nominator participating in the upcoming annual Exhibition of Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement (EURēCA). The deadline to nominate a mentor is noon on April 24, 2024. Graduate students need only one nomination from an undergraduate student. Below you will find more information on the nomination process. A complete list of award recipients (2016 – Present) can be found here.

Students who participated in the Exhibition of Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement (EURēCA) may nominate their faculty mentor for the Faculty Research Mentor Award. As you complete the nomination form, be reminded that:

  • A good faculty mentor has provided the background and necessary help in launching student learning and success with research, scholarship, or creative activity. This person guides with a kind and keen eye and works with students in a way that advances their learning as well as the scholarly work. A mentor “takes a special interest in helping [students] develop into successful professional[s]” and “assists [students] to optimize [their] education experience” (from Adviser, Teacher, Role Model, Friend).
  • A good mentor is not only readily accessible to assist students with their work, but they also provide a quality environment for students to grow in their capabilities and further their professional development. A good mentor provides leadership and advice beyond just the classroom setting.

As you prepare for your nomination, consider the impact of your mentor on your learning and overall experience.

Nomination Form

What is your Name?(Required)
This nomination is for(Required)
What is your Mentor's name?(Required)
The following points may be addressed in your explanation: - The impact of your mentor on your learning and overall experience as a scholar - Accessibility of the mentor to the students - Quality of the learning environment - Awareness and recognition of the student’s capabilities and contributions to their work - Opportunities provided for professional growth. Please keep your response to a maximum of approximately 500 words (max. 3500 characters).

Each faculty mentor must receive two nominations to be considered for this award. At least one nomination must come from a student giving a current or past EURēCA presentation/poster mentored by the nominated faculty. Additional endorsements can come from either a current or former student. Graduate students need only one nomination to be considered. Awards are presented by the Office of Undergraduate Research & Fellowships at the EUReCA awards ceremony.

Thank you for honoring your mentor with a nomination!