Postdocs awarded inaugural Graduate Division prize in excellence

UC Santa Barbara’s Graduate Division has launched a new award to spotlight the vital contributions of postdoctoral scholars, celebrating their excellence in mentorship and leadership. In its inaugural year, the Awards for Excellence in Postdocs honor two standout researchers for their impact as mentors, leaders and collaborators across campus.

“Postdoctoral scholars play a crucial role in research, but they are also teachers and mentors,” said Interim Graduate Dean Leila Rupp. “These awards reward the work postdocs do mentoring undergraduate and graduate students and taking leadership of the research process. Together with faculty members, postdoctoral scholars are nurturing the next generation of researchers.” 

From nominees across campus during spring quarter, Smith and Vami were selected by a subcommittee of associate deans to receive the $1,500 prizes.

“The awards represent an important step forward in recognizing the exceptional work and dedication of our postdoctoral scholars,” said Anna Theogarajan, director of Graduate Professional Development. “While we've long had mentorship awards to honor graduate students, these new awards fill a critical gap by uplifting and ensuring our postdoctoral community receives the recognition they deserve. The development of these awards reflects the collaborative spirit of our campus, bringing together the Graduate Division, Office of Research, and CSEP (Center for Science and Engineering Partnerships) to support our postdoctoral researchers.”