A University of Oklahoma researcher, Amy Cerato, was among the 100 outstanding early career scientists honored today by the President at the White House with the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. The Award is the highest honor bestowed by the U. S. government on scientists and engineers in the early stages of their careers.
Cerato, assistant professor in the School of Civil and Environmental Science within the OU College of Engineering, was nominated by the National Science Foundation for her research which focuses on expansive soils--an area often overlooked as a major problem because these soils often take years to cause extensive damage. She studies how to design and build robust foundations for critical infrastructures, particularly in marginal soils.
During the ceremony, each winner was presented with a letter from the President stating that they were selected for this honor because of their innovative research and for their demonstrated commitment to community service and public outreach. Only the most meritorious young scientists and engineers in the nation are nominated for this award. The awards are coordinated by the Office of Science and Technology Policy within the Executive Office of the President.
The event today builds on the expansion of the "Educate to Innovate" campaign announced by the White House last week and showcases the President's sustained focus on America's need for world-class science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workforce. The awards embody the high priority the Administration places on producing outstanding scientists and engineers to advance the nation's goals and contribute to all sectors of the economy.
Awardees are selected on two criteria: pursuit of innovative research at the frontiers of science and technology and a commitment to community service as demonstrated through scientific leadership, public education or community service. Winners receive up to a five-year research grant to further their study in support of critical government missions.