SUZANNE ESTES : Talking Evolution
Evolutionary biologist Suzanne Estes is so modest that it's easy to overlook her accomplishments. "Suzanne's major flaw is indeed that she is too self-effacing," says Patrick Phillips, her graduate adviser. But conversations with Phillips and other admiring colleagues make it clear that she should not be underestimated as a scientist or mentor: Estes's drive and intellectual curiosity have made her an up-and-coming genetics researcher and influential mentor to tomorrow's scientists.
TAHIRIH MOTAZEDIAN, A “Blue Sky” Topic on the Red Planet
In the summer of 2002 at the Arkansas-Oklahoma Center for Space and Planetary Sciences, UO student Tahirih Motazedian was given free rein to find her internship research topic, a “blue sky” assignment. And, in the process of analyzing thousands of photos, she discovered it—in some darkly streaked images that she believes provide evidence of water on Mars.
ANNA CAVENDER, UO Senior Honored as North America’s Top Student
A University of Oregon senior has been named North America’s 2004 Outstanding Female Undergraduate in Computer Science and Engineering by the Computing Research Association (CRA) of Washington, D.C.
The honor recognizes Anna Cavender’s “extraordinary commitment to public service” as shown by her work on two significant projects, says Anthony Hornof, the UO assistant professor of computer and information science who nominated her for the award.
GERI RICHMOND, A Chemist and a Coach
Some jobs can be learned. For many, it’s merely a matter of taking the right path -- choosing the right classes, memorizing the right things, getting the necessary experience. But some jobs require something more if one is to truly exceed -- a natural aptitude for the profession.
DELLA ROY, Cement Paves the Way to Illustrious Career
It’s been 53 years since Della Roy finished her bachelor’s degree in chemistry at the University of Oregon. During that time, Roy has built a career in materials science and engineering at Penn State that would exhaust most mortals. She has authored 400 publications and four patents, edited eight books, founded a research magazine, mentored thirty-six graduate students, and chaired numerous conferences and committees—and those are just the highlights. “Retired” since 1992, Roy still puts in a full day at the office whenever she is in town.