The PECASE program recognizes outstanding scientists and engineers who, early in their careers, show exceptional potential for leadership at the frontiers of knowledge. This Presidential Award is the highest honor bestowed by the United States Government on scientists and engineers beginning their independent careers.

Don DeVoe, mechanical engineering (ME)
Recognized for developing a novel approach to fabricate six-degree-of-freedom micromechanisms, and for innovative educational activities that nurture capable MEMS researchers of the future.

Satyandra Kumar Gupta, mechanical engineering (ME) and Institute for Systems Research
Recognized for developing "Spatial Algorithms for Automated Design of Multi-Piece Multi-Stage Molds for Manufacturing Geometrically Complex Heterogeneous Objects."

Andre Marshall, aerospace engineering and fire protection engineering
Recognized for his research titled "Exploring jet fragmentation and atomization for combustion and fire suppression systems."

Elisabeth Smela, mechanical engineering (ME)
Recognized for her research to develop a new type of microscopic artificial muscle, or autonomous actuator, technology.

Edo Waks, electrical and computer engineering
Recognized for work in nanophotonics.

Bruce Yu, Fischell Department of Bioengineering and UMD School of Pharmacy
Recognized for work with force-sensitive nanofiber networks.