The Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry (OURI) recognizes outstanding research, design, and creative work as well as the faculty who create rich undergraduate research experiences in and beyond the classroom.
Distinction in Research and Creative Work (DIR)
Distinction in Research and Creative Work is a university award for select undergraduates, granted at commencement, which appears on the transcript and diploma. Eligibility for the award extends widely to include a variety of research, design, and other creative projects, as well as persistent dedication to research. OURI hosts a graduation reception for all winners.
Outstanding Undergraduate Mentor Award
The Outstanding Undergraduate Research Mentor Award honors individuals who demonstrate exemplary mentorship to Rice undergraduate students in research, design and creative works projects. The Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry is accepting nominations from current Rice students who would like to acknowledge the impact their research mentor has had on them and their experience.
Teaching Award
To bring attention to the efforts across campus to scaffold inquiry and research into the curriculum, this award recognizes faculty who demonstrate excellence in the use of inquiry-based learning pedagogies, emphasizing students' questions, ideas, and observations in undergraduate teaching. Evaluation will consider innovation and risk-taking, implementation of research-based practices, student evaluations and comments, and nomination by a department chair or dean.
One award will be given at the end of each academic year. All faculty will be eligible for this award. For each $3,000 award, $1,500 will be a cash award directly to the faculty member; the remaining $1,500 will be transferred to a U fund of the winner’s preference for use in enhancing inquiry-based learning.