Earlier today (Feb. 18), President Obama named UC Davis' Tessa Hill a recipient of a Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. The award is the highest honor given by the government to science and engineering professionals in the early stages of their independent research careers.

“These early-career scientists are leading the way in our efforts to confront and understand challenges from climate change to our health and wellness,” Obama said. “We congratulate these accomplished individuals and encourage them to continue to serve as an example of the incredible promise and ingenuity of the American people.”

Hill is an associate professor in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences and at the UC Davis Bodega Marine Laboratory, and is associate director of the UC Davis Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute.

A member of the Bodega Ocean Acidification Research Group, she studies the response of marine species to environmental disturbances, including the impact of ocean acidification on oysters.

Hill leads a National Science Foundation-supported program where she works with future K-12 science teachers to help them infuse their classrooms with climate change science. She is also very active in science communications and, earlier this year, was named a Public Engagement Fellow by the Leshner Leadership Institute.

“Her research exemplifies how fundamental scientific research can impact policy and economics,” said Dawn Sumner, chair of the Department of Earth and Planetary Science. “She is deserving of this high award in so many ways.”

The Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers, established by President Clinton in 1996, are coordinated by the Office of Science and Technology Policy within the Executive Office of the President. Awardees are selected for their pursuit of innovative research at the frontiers of science and technology and their commitment to community service as demonstrated through scientific leadership, public education or community outreach.