NASA scientists, engineers receive Presidential early career awards

The PECASE awards represent the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government on scientists and engineers who are beginning their research careers. The award recognizes recipients' exceptional potential for leadership at the frontiers of scientific knowledge, as well as their commitment to community service as demonstrated through professional leadership, education or community outreach.

“These early career scientists and engineers represent some of the best and brightest talent in our agency and our university partners," said NASA Administrator Charles Bolden. "We are delighted to see them win this prestigious award, as their contributions will benefit our nation and advance the scientific frontiers."

The following 2016 NASA recipients were nominated by the agency's Science Mission Directorate, and its Offices of the Chief Engineer and Chief Technologist:

Dr. James Benardini -- planetary protection; NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California
Dr. Jin-Woo Han -- nanodevices and nanoelectronics; NASA’s Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, California
Dr. Michele Manuel -- self-healing metals; University of Florida, Gainesville
Dr. Andrew Molthan -- cloud microphysics; NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama
Dr. Colleen Mouw -- oceanography and public health; Michigan Technological University, Houghton
Dr. Vikram Shyam -- technical innovation in fundamental aeronautics; NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland