Congratulations to Dr. Eirik Endeve, one of 2018’s winners of the Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year award.

Endeve has offered extensive support for undergraduate researchers in the form of research projects, presentations, and publications. Students praise his awareness of their own capabilities, his establishment of reasonable expectations to match those capabilities, and his guidance in helping them eventually exceed those capabilities. Brandon Barker explains how “he understands our abilities and never asks more of us than is possible given our limitations,” but “he still manages to push us enough that we are constantly growing as researchers.” Jesse Buffaloe adds that “He is prompt at answering questions and dealing with concerns, has provided a wealth of advice for developing quality research talks and poster presentations, and has set out reasonable expectations, while still ensuring that goals are met.”

While Endeve’s primary role is to lead laboratory research, he supports this role with his dedication as a teacher. As Jesse Buffaloe describes: “His ability to condense complex ideas has rivaled that of the best teaching professors I have had during my time here. Working with him has not only been intellectually enriching but also an enjoyable experience.”

Multiple students insist Endeve’s mentorship has been key in the decision to pursue astrophysics beyond the undergraduate level, as his support across the entirety of their undergraduate education has instilled knowledge, skill, and comfort with the research and presentation process.

Dr. Endeve is a joint faculty assistant professor in the physics and astronomy department and at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. He received his PhD in astrophysics from the University of Oslo. His current work at ORNL engages in computational astrophysics.

Congratulations to Dr. Spencer Olmstead, one of 2018’s winners of the Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year award.

Olmstead treats his mentoring relationships according to their individual concerns and aspirations, recognizing the unique qualities of each student. Through this, he has developed a closely knit team with his graduate assistants and undergraduate researchers, one which gives students recognition and ownership of their accomplishments. Kayley Davis writes that Olmstead “ensures that any student he mentors is aware of the contribution of their work” and gives opportunities for authorship and presentation, while Kevin Treadway says, “One of my favorite things about Dr. Olmstead is the trust he placed in me.”

Olmstead’s mentorship has given students confidence and a greater recognition of their own place in the larger academic community, opening the way to the improvement of society through research. Treadway goes on to say, “This trust that was placed in me instilled me with a sense of confidence that helped me work on my own research to the best of my abilities. In the end, Dr. Olmstead has been an absolutely amazing mentor to me. He has trusted me, listened to me, instructed me, and led me to see the ways in which research is vital to the expansion of knowledge and betterment of society.”

Dr. Olmstead is an associate professor in child and family studies, and he is co-director of the Well-Being in Adolescents and Emerging Adults Laboratory. He received his PhD from Florida State University. His current research studies the sexual health and well-being of young adults, in particular young adult men’s sexual and reproductive health.

Congratulations to Dr. Gregory Stuart, one of 2018’s winners of the Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year award.

Students praise Stuart’s in-class instruction and vast body of knowledge, but they especially note the kindness and respect with which he treats his students. Meredith Denney writes that “He is personable and cheerful every time I interact with him. It’s hard to believe someone is that delightful over email. Multiple times when my confidence in my research has lacked, Dr. Stuart went above and beyond to boost my self esteem and encourage me to never give up. With every acceptance email, he would celebrate with me,” and others similarly note Stuart’s dedication to getting to know his students and helping them to succeed. As Dana Conzemius explains, “Dr. Stuart should be considered for the Faculty Research Mentor Award not only because of his diligence and affirmation to help students, but also for his ability to really engage with students to create a life plan.”

Beyond this, his work inside the classroom and beyond enable and support the undergraduate research process, serving as a skilled teacher and guide in professionalization. As Mikaela Trussell writes, “He has given me the opportunity to dive into research as an undergrad and is always an excellent resource for any questions I have about research or graduate school. He values all of his students and makes it known that he wants us all to reach our fullest research potential.”

Dr. Stuart is a professor in psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences. He received a PhD from Indiana University and serves on numerous academic councils and editorial boards. His current research focuses on etiology, prevention, and treatment of intimate partner violence, relationship distress, and addictions.