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Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Research

Research Medal Award Winner

Karen Meech, headshot

Karen Meech
Astronomy

Karen Meech, an astronomer at the Institute for Astronomy at the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa.

Meech has been a pioneer in observing the behavior of comets. Her research bridges the boundaries between astronomy, planetary science, geology and astrobiology. Her work investigating the leftovers of the planetary building process has contributed to the understanding of the conditions during the time our solar system was put together.

Meech’s expertise led to her participation as a co-investigator on three NASA comet missions where she led the Earth’s observing campaigns. She has catalyzed a large interdisciplinary research program in astrobiology at UH, investigating water and habitability. In particular, she has led the development of space mission concepts focused on the big-picture questions surrounding the origin of Earth’s water.

Her research has been recognized with the Harold C. Urey Prize, among several other awards. The American Association of Variable Star Observers recognized her service to teaching and outreach through the William Tylor Olcott Award.

The Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Research is awarded by the Board of Regents in recognition of scholarly contributions that expand the boundaries of knowledge and enrich the lives of students and the community.

Please contact your Campus Chancellor's Office for more information on the application process.

Current Winners
Go to UH News for stories on the latest honorees.

1965-2015 Honorees
2012–2015 | 2011–2007 | 2006–2002 | 2001–1965

2015

Karen Meech, headshot
Karen Meech
Astronomy
Axel Timmermann, headshot
Axel Timmermann
Oceanography

2014

Ruth Gates, headshot
Ruth Gates
Marine Biology
Andrew Howard, headshot
Andrew Howard
Astronomy
Nick Kaiser, headshot
Nick Kaiser
Astronomy

2013

Magdy Iskander, headshot
Magdy Iskander
Electrical Engineering
Bin Wang, headshot
Bin Wang
Meteorology

2012

Roger Ames, headshot
Roger Ames
Philosophy
Christopher Bae, headshot
Christopher Bae
Anthropology
Aaron Ohta, headshot
Aaron Ohta
Electrical Engineering