PAST RECIPIENTS

2023–2024

• Evan Cook
  Observational Tests of Contact Binary Star Evolution
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Henry Kobulnicky, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Kaitlyn McKnight
  Detecting Climate Change Effects on Spatial Synchrony and population Vulnerability: Adapting Wavelet Techniques to Predict Whitebark Pine Extinction Risk
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Lauren Shoemaker, Department of Botany
• Lauren Kim
  Science Kitchen and High-Altitude Ballooning Outreach
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. TeYu Chien, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Mollie Pope
  Apatite as an Indicator for Water Content in Magmatic Systems
  M.S. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. James Myers, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Jeff Wagner
  Nowhere to Run: The Fate of Cold-Adapted Alpine Indicator Species in the Arctic-Boreal Region
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. David Christianson, Department of Ecosystem Science and Management
• Luke Wilde
  Is Spatial Fidelity a Terrestrial Migrant’s Friend or Foe in an Era of Environmental Change?
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Matthew Kauffman, Department of Zoology and Physiology

2022–2023

• Emily Davis
  Spring Food and Large Carnivores: Integrating Novel Remote Sensing Technology to Advance the Understanding of Black Bear Behavior
  M.S. Candidate, Zoology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Joseph Holbrook, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Lauren Kim
  Science Kitchen and High-Altitude Ballooning Outreach
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. TeYu Chien, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Cole Messa
  Basalts of the Yellowstone-Snake River Plain: Constraining the Role of Basaltic Magmas in the Evolution of the Yellowstone Supervolcano and Intracontinental Hotspot Volcanism
  Ph.D. Candidate, Isotope Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Kenneth Sims, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• John Ramirez
  Correlating Glass Strength with Dessication Tolerance – Insights into How Organisms Survive in Extreme Environments
  Ph.D. Candidate, Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Thomas Boothby, Department of Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences
• William Scougale
  Electronic & Surface Properties Investigation of Topological Quantum Computing Qbit Host: 2M Tungsten Disulfide
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. TeYu Chien, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Eva Smith
  Geophysical and Hydrologic Characterization of Recharge to a Geothermally Influenced Groundwater System
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geophysics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Brad Carr, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Erin Stewart
  Applying Remote Bioacoustics Monitoring Technology to Quantify Biodiversity Patterns and Changes Across a Precipitation-Fragmentation Gradient in Central Panama
  M.S. Candidate, Ecology and Evolution, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr.Patrick Kelley, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Sarah Waybright
  The Plight of Bumble Bees in Winter: How Macroclimate Data Can Predict Organismal Responses on Small Scales
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physiology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Dillon, Department of Zoology and Physiology

2021–2022

• Sarah Allaun
  Modeling the Colonization of Oceania and Beyond: How Past Human Exploration Can Inform Our Future
  Ph.D. Candidate, Anthropology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Todd Surovell, Department of Anthropology
• Ryan Bettcher
  Understanding How Dsup Provide Protection Against Radiation Through Sequence Mutation
  Ph.D. Candidate, Molecular Biology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Thomas Boothby, Department of Molecular Biology
• Matthew Brown
  Plastic Pyrolysis and Cool Flame Ignition: Fire Safety in Microgravity
  Ph.D. Candidate, Mechanical Engineering, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Erica Belmont, Department of Mechanical Engineering
• Ethan Collins
  Investigating Changes in Wildfire Conditions over Wyoming in a Changing Climate
  Ph.D. Candidate, Atmospheric Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Zachary Lebo, Department of Atmospheric Science
• Alexander Fox
  Evaluating Agricultural Sustainability Using a First-Principles Biophysical Model
  Ph.D. Candidate, Hydrology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Brent Ewers, Department of Botany
• Sarah Hankins
  Bio-Inspired Methodology for Designing Heat Exchanger Architectures for Aerospace Applications
  Ph.D. Candidate, Mechanical Engineering, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Ray Fertig, Department of Mechanical Engineering
• Matthew Jones
  Aerospace Grade Shape-Memory Alloys Produced via Additive Manufacturing
  Ph.D. Candidate, Mechanical Engineering, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Carl Frick, Department of Mechanical Engineering
• Lucas Napolitano
  Characterizing Metal Formation Over Cosmic Time Using Next-Generation Instrumentation
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Adam Myers, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Kristen Pozsonyi
  Estimation of Volatile Organic Compound Fluxes from Oil and Gas Production and Their Application to Space-Based Retrievals
  Ph.D. Candidate, Atmospheric Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Shane Murphy, Department of Atmospheric Science
• Gregory Stark
  Quantifying the Magmatic Evolution of the Jemez Volcanic Field: Evidence from Isotope Geochemistry and Numerical Modeling
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Kenneth Sims, Department of Geology and Geophysics

2020–2021

• Lauren Azevedo Schmidt
  Assessing Environmental Filters Influencing Modern Leaf Packs to Better Interpret Fossil Leaf Localites as a Way of Understanding Plant and Insect Community Changes in Response to Climate Change
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Ellen Currano, Department of Geology and Geophysics / Department of Botany
• Daniel Colwell
  Understanding the End of Plate Tectonics on Earth-Like Planets
  M.S. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Cheadle, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Noah Cowper
  Chaotic Quantum Key Distribution and An Analysis of Non-Ideal States on the Effectiveness of Practical Quantum Communication Schemes
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. David Thayer, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Josh Hill
  “Bottoms-Up” Insights into the Generation of Solar Fuels: Elucidating How Catalyst Materials Enhance the Photoelectrochemical Activity of 2D Materials Through Single Particle Measurements
  Ph.D. Candidate, Chemistry, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Caleb Hill, Department of Chemistry
• Lisa Kant
  Water, Rocks and Life: Using Fe Isotopes to Constrain the Serpentinization Process in the Josephine Peridotite, OR
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Kenneth Sims, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Jacob McLane
  Next Generation Reverberation Mapping in the GRAVITY Era
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Brotherton, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Austin Smith
  Integrating Expansive LiDAR Data to Understand Habitat Relationships of Forest Carnivores in Wyoming
  M.S. Candidate, Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Joseph Holbrook, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Kurt Stahlfeld
  Silicon-Carbon Composite Anodes for Next Generation Lithium Batteries
  Ph.D. Candidate, Mechanical Engineering, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Erica Belmont, Department of Mechanical Engineering

2019–2020

• Russell Callahan
  Feedbacks Between Vegetation, Climate, Lithology, and Subsurgace Weathering in the Southern Sierra Nevada, CA
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Cliff Riebe, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Amy Cavanaugh
  Spectral Properties of Quasars
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Brotherton, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Coltin Grasmick
  Estimating Liquid Water Content from Airborne Ka Band and W Band Radars
  Ph.D. Candidate, Atmospheric Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Bart Geerts, Department of Atmospheric Science
• Brandon Hays
  Mutualism Disruption by an Invasive Species: Measuring Ant-Elephant Induced Shifts in Savanna Tree Cover
  M.S. Candidate, Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Jacob Goheen, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Jordan Schulte
  Detached Eddy Simulation Verification and Validation for Turbulent Wall-Modeled Cases
  M.S. Candidate, Mechanical Engineering, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Stollinger, Department of Mechanical Engineering
• Veronica Spaulding
  Self-Assembling Heterogenous COF for Gas Separations
  M.S. Candidate, Chemistry, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. John Hoberg, Department of Chemistry
• Alice Stears
  How Will Terrestrial Grassland Ecosystems Respond to Extreme Weather Events?
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Daniel Laughlin, Department of Botany

2018–2019

• Ellen Aikens
  Surfing the Green Wave in a Changing Environment: Investigating the Impact of Drought on the Foraging Benefit of Migration
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Matthew Kauffman, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Mitchell Anderson
  Cyclic Loading of NiTiPt Shape Memory Alloys
  M.S. Candidate, Mechanical Engineering, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Carl Frick, Department of Mechanical Engineering
• Andrea Creighton
  Drivers and Implications of Sub-Lake Permafrost Thaw Related to a Changing Climate
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geophysics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Andrew Parsekian, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Donna Drogos
  Microbiology of Extreme Environments: Deep Groundwater in Unconventional Reservoirs in Wyoming
  Ph.D. Candidate, Civil Engineering, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Urynowicz, Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering; and Dr. Karen Wawrousek, Department of Chemical Engineering
• Jessica Rick
  Biodiversity in a Changing World: United Paleoecological and Genomic Perspectives to Understand Environmental Change
  Ph.D. Candidate, Botany, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Catherine Wagner, Department of Botany
• Jordan Turner
  Linking Stellar Clusters to Dust Emission in Nearby Galaxies
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Daniel Dale, Department of Physics and Astronomy

2017–2018

• Kristina Harkins
  Determining Drivers of Mammalian Community Diversity in Sagebrush Ecosystems
  M.S. Candidate, Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Merav Ben-David, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Joshua Heiner
  Modeling Application of a Quantum Mechanical Spin 1/2 Particle Using a Highly Complicated Dirven Nonlinear Dissipative Semi-classical Model
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. David Thayer, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Noah Hull
  Validation of Ante-Mortem Samples on a Novel Diagnostic Assay for Food Security and Safety of Long-Term Space Expeditions
  Ph.D. Candidate, Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Brant Schumaker, Department of Veterinary Sciences
• Samuel Pasco
  Using Raman Spectroscopy to Characterize Ice Adhesion on Aircraft Surfaces
  M.S. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. William Rice, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Lauren Stanton
  Do Bright Lights and Big Cities Require Bright Minds and Big Brains? Advancing Technology to Evaluate Wildlife Cognition and Urban Adaptability
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Sarah Benson-Amram, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Jessica Sutter
  Using the [CII] 158 Micron Line as a Tracer of Star Formation in Galaxies Near and Far
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Daniel Dale, Department of Physics and Astronomy

2016–2017

• Christine Bell
  Investigating the Current Distribution of the Declining Western Bumble Bee, Bombus Occidentalis, in Wyoming
  M.S. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Lusha Tronstad, Wyoming Natural Diversity Database
• Matthew Dunlop
  Platinum Isotope Characteristics of PT-Bearing Ores and Genetic Implications
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Cheadle, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Daniel Harris
  Doped Iron Carbides and Nitrides as a Catalyst for Fuel Cell Applications
  Ph.D. Candidate, Chemistry, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Brian Leonard, Department of Chemistry
• Abigail Hoffman
  Understanding Drivers of Small-Scale Spatial Variation in the Amount and Source of Nitrogen Deposition in Grand Teton National Park
  M.S. Candidate, Botany, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. David Williams, Department of Botany
• Michelle Mason
  The Master Quasar Catalog of Near-Infrared Spectra: Unlocking the Secrets of Galaxy Evolution in the Early Universe
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Brotherton, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Jacob Weber
  New Polyaromatic Materials for Electronic Applications
  Ph.D. Candidate, Chemistry, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Edward Clennan, Department of Chemistry
• Henry Wladkowski
  Developing Aligned Metallic Single-Wall Carbon Nanotube-Aerogel Materials for Extremely Lightweight Electromagnetic Interference Applications
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. William Rice, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Andrew Yost
  Investigation of Manganese Doping Effects on Quantum Dot Sensitized Solar Cells by Laser Enhanced Low Temperature Scanning Tunneling Microscopy
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. TeYu Chien, Department of Physics and Astronomy

2015–2016

• William Chick
  A Novel Measurement of Stellar Mass Loss for Nature’s Most Massive Stars
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Henry Kobulnicky, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Katherine Foster
  Black and Brown Carbon – Constraining Optical Properties for Integration Into Climate Models
  Ph.D. Candidate, Atmospheric Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Shane Murphy, Department of Atmospheric Science
• Brandon Overstreet
  Safeguarding Streams from the Sky: Advancing Remote Sensing Science to Support River Management
  Ph.D. Candidate, Hydrologic Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Carl Legleiter, Department of Geography
• James Thode
  Palladium Deposited Metal Carbides as Highly Effective Direct Alcohol Fuel Cell Catalysts
  Ph.D. Candidate, Chemistry, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Brian Leonard, Department of Chemistry

2014–2015

• Charlotte Gabrielsen
  From the Field to Space: Modeling Wetland Ephermerality and Biodiversity in the Context of Climate Change
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor:  Dr. Melanie Murphy, Department of Ecosystem Science and Management
• Brett Jesmer
  Using Remotely-Sensed Data to Link Plant Phenology with Migration, Energy Reserves and Reproduction in a Large Herbivore
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Jacob Goheen, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• David Kasper
  The Discovery of Extra-Solar Planets by Transit Detections
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Hannah Jang-Condell, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Blake Osborn
  The Legacy of Pleistocene Glaciation on Soil Conditions and Productivity of a Rocky Mountain Conifer Forest
  M.S. Candidate, Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. David Williams, Department of Botany
• Roby Velez
  Developing More Autonomous Space Exploration Robots via Modular Learning
  Ph.D. Candidate, Computer Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Jeff Clune, Department of Computer Science

2013–2014

• Tyler Brown
  Igneous Rock Fabrics, Magma System Dynamics, and Ocean Crustal Genesis
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Cheadle, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Paige Copenhaver
  The Influence of Competitive Interactions on Future Distribution of Rocky Mountain Conifers Under Novel Climate Conditions
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Daniel Tinker, Department of Botany
• Anne-Marie Hodge
  Projecting Effects of Climate Change on Mesopredator Release in Rangeland Ecosystems
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Jacob Goheen, Department of Zoology and Physiology / Department of Botany
• Claire Lukens
  Spatial Variation in the Grain Size and Flux of Sediment Produced in Steep Mountain Catchments
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Cliff Riebe, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Olivia Nater
  Pollination Under Threat: How Will Climate Change and Neonicotinoid Insecticides Affect Bee-Plant Mutualisms?
  M.S. Candidate, Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Dillon, Department of Zoology and Physiology

2012–2013

• Jorden Hayes
  Water Storage and Weathering in the Southern Sierra Critical Zone from Seismic Waveform Tomography
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geophysics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. W. Steven Holbrook, Department of Geology and Geophyics
• Craig Hossfeld
  Robust Sub-Millimeter Pillar Arrays for Dry Adhesion Applications
  M.S. Candidate, Mechanical Engineering, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Carl Frick, Department of Mechanical Engineering
• Allison Louthan
  The Relative Importance of Abiotic and Biotic Factors in Setting Species’ Range Limits
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Daniel Doak, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Jeremiah Marsicek
  Examining Past Abrupt Climate Changes: A Long-Term Context for Understanding Current and Future Climate Trends
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Bryan Shuman, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• David Reed
  Implementing Bayesian Approaches to Incorporate Canopy Gaps in Models of Carbon and Water Cycling
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Brent Ewers, Department of Botany
• Shawn Staudaher
  The Mystery of Galaxy Outer Disk Formation
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Daniel Dale, Department of Physics and Astronomy

2011–2012

• Jacob Carnes
  The Magmatic History of the Dufek Large Mafic Intrusion, Antarctica
  M.S. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Cheadle, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Reilly Dibner
  Do Biologically Generated Spatial Patterns Promote Ecosystem Stability and Augment Resilience to Disturbance?
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Daniel Doak, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Brady Foreman
  Fluvial Response To The Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Paul Heller, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Jessie Runnoe
  Exploring the Next Generation of Quasar Spectral Engergy Distributions
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Brotherton, Department of Physics and Astronomy

2010–2011

• David Cook
  Comparison of Star Cluster Ages with Star Formation Histories in Nearby Dwarf Galaxies
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Daniel Dale, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Kerry Cutler
  The Distribution and Contributions to Ecosystem Structure of Biological Soil Crusts in the Sagebrush Steppe Ecosystem: Implications for Carbon Budgets and Impacts of Human Activities
  M.S. Candidate, Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Daniel Doak, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Levi Lowder
  Domesticating Algae: Engineering Auto-flocculation in Chlamydomonas Reinartdtii
  Ph.D. Candidate, Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Stephen Herbert, Department of Plant Sciences
• Michael Lundquist
  Spectroscopic Study of the Early Evolution of Classic Novae
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Henry Kolbulnicky, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Trent Mankowski
  Building Wyoming’s Capacity for Secondary School Space Science Instruction
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Tim Slater, Department of Secondary Education / Science and Math Teaching Center
• Lynn Moore
  Phenology as an Integrator of Climate Change in the Shortgrass Steppe
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. William Lauenroth, Department of Botany
• Virginia Schmit
  Development of Sepctroscopically Bright Gold Nanoparticle Reporters to Detect Life Precursors
  Ph.D. Candidate, Molecular Biology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Keith Carron, Department of Chemistry
• Nicole Schoolmeesters
  Cooling History of the Atlantis Massif and Kane Oceanic Core Complex at the Slow-Spreading Mid-Atlantic Ridge
  M.S. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Cheadle, Department of Geology and Geophysics

2009–2010

• Michael Alexander
  Do Massive Stars Trigger New Waves of Star Formation?
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Henry Kobulnicky, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Thomas Andretta
  New Insights into Orographic Precipitation in the Western United States Using New-Generation Multichannel Passive and Active Microwave Satellites
  Ph.D. Candidate, Atmospheric Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Bart Geerts, Department of Atmospheric Science
• Michael DiPompeo
  Radio Astronomy and Polarized Light: The Keys to Unlocking the Orientation of High Velocity Outflows in Quasars
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael Brotherton, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Sharon Kettwich
  Laboratory Based Infrared Spectroscopic Measurements of Solid Hydrogen to Determine Astronomical Relevance
  Ph.D. Candidate, Chemistry, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. David Anderson, Department of Chemistry
• Trent Mankowski
  Building Wyoming’s Capacity for Secondary School Space Science Instruction
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Tim Slater, Department of Secondary Education / Science and Math Teaching Center
• John Whiteman
  Insights into Space Medicine from Polar Bears and Insights into Global Climate Change from the Arctic
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Henry Harlow, Department of Zoology and Physiology

2008–2009

• Daniel Kiminki
  Massive Binary Stars as a Probe of Massive Star Formation
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Henry Kobulnicky, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Benjamin Koch
  Improving Predictions of Carbon Cycling in Ecosystems: Quantifying Non-Consumptive Interactions
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Robert Hall, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Jake Marson
  Re-Evaluation of the N.W. Corner of the Storegga Slide Headwall Through Interpretation of Seismic Data
  M.S. Candidate, Geophysics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. W. Steven Holbrook, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Stephanie Peek
  Evaluating the Impact of Climate Change on Nutrient Cycling Across the Eocene-Oligocene Boundary
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Mark Clementz, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Paul Riedel
  Ceria-Supported Metal Catalysts for Water-Gas Shift Reaction in Fuel Cell Applications
  Ph.D. Candidate, Chemistry, University of Wyoming (funded through a Faculty Research Grant)
  Advisor: Dr. Jing Zhou, Department of Chemistry
• Matthew Salava
  Using Spatial Decision Support Systems to Integrate Visual and Environmental Consideration for Visual Resource Management
  M.A. Candidate, Geography / Environment and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Steven Prager, Department of Geography

2007–2008

• Julia Angstmann
  Using Landsat ETM+ to Separate and Quantify the Influence of Well- and Poorly-Drained Soils on Water Cycles of Boreal Ecosystems
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Brent Ewers, Department of Botany
• Elizabeth Hajek
  Avulsion Clusters in Ancient and Experimental Alluvial Basins
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Paul Heller, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Daniel Jones
  An Analysis of the Importance of Arc Accretion to the Paleoproterozoic Growth of the Northern Colorado Province
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Arthur Snoke, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Carolynn Moore
  Calibration of Star Formation Rate Indicators Spanning the Latter Half of the Age of the Universe
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Daniel Dale, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Ryan Morgan
  Volcanic Activity on Io: A Study of Volatile Effects on Thermal Processes and Spectral Properties
  M.S. Candidate, Geophysics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Robert Howell, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• James Zier
  Modeling the Effects of Climate Change on Amphibian Breeding Habitat in a Kettle Pond Ecosystem, Bighorn Mountains, Wyoming
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Stephen Jackson, Department of Botany

2006–2007

• Kay Achenbach
  Mantle Flow Beneath Mid-Ocean Ridges
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geophysics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Michael J. Cheadle, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Eric Anderson
  Integrating Satellite-Monitored Movements, Remote Sensing of Habitat, and Surface-Based Observations to Assess Impacts of Changes in Coastal Regions on Declining Sea Ducks
  Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. James Lovvorn, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Katie Greller
  Mechanisms of Nitrogen Conservation in a Small Mammal Hibernator During Periods of Protein Scarcity and Hibernation
  M.S. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Henry Harlow, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Christopher Rodgers
  Star Formation Histories of Milky Way Dwarf Spheroidal Galaxies Using the Red Giant Branch
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Ronald Canterna, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Karl Taboga
  Structural Controls on Recharge Distribution in a Mountain Front Aquifer
  M.S. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Carrick Eggleston, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Melissa Thompson
  Quantifying Effects of Spatial Variability on Scaling Vegetation Cover from Plots to Regions in a Sagebrush Ecosystem
  M.S. Candidate, Ecology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Brent Ewers, Department of Botany
• Elizabeth Wilson
  Scales of Seafloor Roughness and Their Effects on Ocean Mixing Using Seismic Oceanography
  M.S. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. W. Steven Holbrook, Department of Geology and Geophysics

2005–2006

• Tracey Baldyga
  Estimating the Effects of Land Cover Misclassification Derived from Remotely Sensed Imagery on Distributed Hydrologic Models
  Ph.D. Candidate, Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management, University of Wyoming
  Advisors: Dr. Scott Miller, Department of Renewable Resources
• Meagan Bayless
  Biomass and Carbon Flux Assessment and Modeling for a Chronosequence of an Artemisia tridentate (Mountain Big Sagebrush) Ecosystem in Wyoming
  Ph.D. Candidate, Botany, University of Wyoming
  Advisors: Dr. Brent Ewers and Dr. Elise Pendall, Department of Botany
• Hannah Griscom
  Land Cover and Hydrolic Assessment of the Upper Luvuvhu & Shingwedzi Watersheds, South Africa: Steps Towards Integrated Catchment Management
  M.S. Candidate, Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management, University of Wyoming
  Advisors: Dr. Scott Miller, Department of Renewable Resources
• Josef Pohl
  Formalizing & Reasoning About Trees, Graphs, and Purely Functional Data Structures
  Ph.D. Candidate, Computer Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisors: Dr. James Caldwell, Department of Computer Science

2004–2005

• Jonathon Adelman
  Quantifying Spatial Variability in Forest Function Along Environmental Gradients: Coupling Large and Small Scales Using Remote Sensing and Geostatistics
  M.S. Candidate, Botany, University of Wyoming
  Advisors: Dr. Brent Ewers, Department of Botany
• Joshua Schwartz
  Crystal Evolution at Slow-Spreading Mid-Ocean Ridges, Atlantis Bank, Southwest Indian Ridge
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisors: Dr. Barbara John, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Brian Uzpen
  Spitzer Space Telescope Search for Circumstellar Disks Around Main-Sequence Stars
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisors: Dr. Henry Kobulnicky, Department. of Physics and Astronomy

2003–2004

• Christopher Borman
  Biogeochemical Cycling of Iron and Manganese in Thermocide Aquatic Environments: A Link to the Prehistory of Microbial Evolution
  Ph.D. Candidate, Chemistry, University of Wyoming
  Advisors: Dr. Patrick Sullivan and Dr. Patricia Colberg, Department of Chemistry
• Susan Frost
  Decomposition of Images by Smoothness
  Ph.D. Candidate, Mathematics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Farad Jafari, Department of Mathematics
• Laura Hudson
  Dendroclimatic Reconstruction and Stable Isotope Analysis Using Limber Pine (Pinus Flexilis): A Pilot Study to Assess Drought Within the North Platte Watershed of Wyoming
  Ph.D. Candidate, Botany, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Elise Pendall, Department of Botany
• Daniel Kiminki
  Uncovering Massive Close Binary Populations
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Henry Kobulnicky, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Elena Miranda
  Structural Evolution of Gabbroic Rocks, Atlantis Bank, Southwest Indian Ridge
  M.S. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Barbara John, Department of Geology and Geophysics

2002–2003

• Joseph Bump
  Small-scale Dynamics of Sea Ice in the Bering Sea: A Remote Sensing and Numerical Model Investigation
  M.S. Candidate, Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. James Lovvorn, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Clark Cotton
  Influence of Hibernation Opiates on Muscle Atrophy
  M.S. Candidate, Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Henry Harlow, Department of Zoology and Physiology
• Timothy Trudel
  Description and Dynamical Interpretation of Radar Fine-Lines in the Pre-Convective Continental Boundary Layer
  M.S. Candidate, Atmospheric Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Bart Geerts, Department of Atmospheric Sciences

2001–2002

• Ian Fairweather
  Erosion and Uplift of the Himalaya: A Remote Sensing and Numerical Model Investigation
  M.S. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Neil Humphrey, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Carol Fluckiger-Smedley
  Acquisition of Genes for Low Temperature Photosynthesis
  M.S. Candidate, Botany, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Steve Herbert, Department of Botany
• Mark Huber
  Studying Variability in Intrinsically Faint Sources in the Faint Sky Variability Survey: Very Low-Mass Dwarfs at the Substellar Boundary and a Missing Population of Faint Cataclysmic Variables
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Steve Howell, Planetary Science Institute (Tucson, AZ) / Department of Physics and Astronomy (UW adjunct)
• Creighton Litton
  Carbon Cycling in Developing and Mature Post-fire Coniferous Forest Ecosystems
  Ph. D. Candidate, Botany, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Dennis Knight, Department of Botany

2000–2001

• John Gillham
  Predicting Susceptibility of Rangelands to Invasion by Exotic Weed Species Using GIS
  M.S. Candidate, Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Ann Hild, Department of Renewable Resources
• Mark Huber
  A Continued Search for Faint Cataclysmic Variables and Further Study of Variability in Very Low-Mass Objects in the Faint Star Variability Survey
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Steve Howell, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Amy Parker-Williams
  Using Several Scales of Remotely Sensed Data to Map and Monitor Leafy Spurge (Euphorbia Esula L.), an Exotic Invasive Weed
  Ph.D. Candidate, Botany, Department of Botany, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. E. Raymond Hunt, USDA AGS; Dr. Steven Jackson, Department of Botany; Dr. David Kazmer, Department of Renewable Resources; Dr. Ronald Marrs, Department of Geology and Geophysics; and Dr. Jane Beiswenger, Department of Botany
• Angelice Varca
  Wyoming Teacher Survey on Use of NASA Materials in the Classroom
  M.S. Candidate, Natural Sciences Program, University of Wyoming

1999–2000

• Garrace DeGroot
  A Comparative Evaluation of Security Mechanisms for Collaborative Science Environments
  M.S. Candidate, Computer Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Rex Gantenbein, Department of Computer Science
• Mark Huber
  Investigations of Faint Cataclysmic Variables and Brown Dwarfs in the Faint Star Variability Survey
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Steve Howell, Department of Physics and Astronomy

1998–1999

• Michael Bray
  Development of Physiological Data Collection Systems for Understanding the Apparent Lack of Muscle Atrophy in Overwintering Black Bears
  M.S. Candidate, Electrical Engineering, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Jerry Cupal, Department of Electrical Engineering
• Pamela Reid
  Ph.D. Candidate, Science Education, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Joseph Stepans, Department of Curriculum and Instruction
• Jerome Winslow
  Development of a Global Grassland Phenology Model Using Separate Climate Components Linked to a Hydrologic Budget
  Ph.D. Candidate, Botany, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. E. Raymond Hunt, Department of Botany

1997–1998

• Jennifer Cash
  Computer Modeling of Emission Processes in the Accretion Streams of Magnetic Cataclysmic Variable Stars
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Steve Howell, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Casi Ergish
  Photolytic Chemistry of Martian Soils: Understanding Oxygen Evolution in the Mars Lander Soil Probes
  Ph.D. Candidate, Chemistry, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. D. Scott Bohle, Department of Chemistry
• Walter Fertig, Jr.
  Gap Analysis of Plants in Wyoming
  Ph.D. Candidate, Botany, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. William Reiners, Department of Botany
• Matthew Germino
  The Influence of Radiation Cooling and High Insolation on Plant Productivity & Reproduction: Implications for Climate and Land
  Ph.D. Candidate, Botany, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. William Smith, Department of Botany
• William Huffman
  Trace Gas Uptake by Vapor Depositing Ice
  Ph.D. Candidate, Chemistry, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Jeffrey Snider, Department of Atmospheric Science
• Thomas Kalakay
  Large Scale Magmatism & Crustal Deformation on Terrestrial Planets: A Comparison of the Pioneer Batholith of Montana with Large Coronae Structures on Venus
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Barbara John and Dr. John Murphy, Department of Geology and Geophysics
• Jeffrey Sudol
  Mid-Infrared Imaging of Circumstellar Dust of Mira Variable Stars
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. H. Melvin Dyck, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Robert Thompson
  The Possible Departure from Spherical Symmetry of Highly Evolved Giant Stars
  M.S. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. H. Melvin Dyck, Department of Physics and Astronomy

1996–1997

• Russell Ashenden
  Turboprop Aircraft Performance Response to Various Environmental Conditions
  M.S. Candidate, Atmospheric Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. J. Marwitz, Department of Atmospheric Science
• Michael Bruch
  Nano-Radian to Milli-Radian Pointing Aboard the Space Shuttle
  M.S. Candidate, Electrical Engineering, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Jerry Hamann and Dr. John McInroy, Department of Electrical Engineering
• David Ciardi
  A Multi-wavelength Observational Study of Two Nearby Globular Filaments
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Charles Woodward, Department of Physics and Astronomy; and Dr. Dan Clemens, Department of Astronomy (Boston University)
• Calli Daume
  Comparison of Field and Satellite Spectra for Southeastern Wyoming Rangeland Soils
  M.S. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Larry Munn, Department of Plant, Soil, and Insect Studies
• Thomas James
  Implementing Remote Data Acquisition & Stimulus Control Systems
  Ph.D. Candidate, Computer Science, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. John Cowles, Department of Computer Science
• Lane Middleton
  Energy Balance Analysis for Estimation of Melt Water Runoff from Ptarmigan Glacier in the Alaska Coast Range
  M.A. Candidate, Geography, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Richard Marston, Department of Geography and Recreation
• John O’Brien
  Mutually Orthogonal Hexapod
  M.S. Candidate, Electrical Engineering, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. John McInroy, Department of Electrical Engineering
• Gerard van Belle
  A Continued Interferometric Investigation into the Multiplicity of Young Stellar Objects
  Ph.D. Candidate, Physics, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. H. Melvin Dyck, Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Alecia Wawrzynski
  Utilization of Remote Imagery and Field Spectra for the Detection and Monitoring of Mining Sites
  Ph.D. Candidate, Geology, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. E. Raymond Hunt, Department of Botany
• Kevin White
  Fundamental Studies of the Chemistry of Quadricyclane, a High Energy Fuel Additive
  Ph.D. Candidate, Chemistry, University of Wyoming
  Advisor: Dr. Daniel Buttry, Department of Chemistry