The University of Texas Institute for Geophysics recognized outstanding staff and students at its annual awards celebration, June 13, 2025.
The awards were presented by UTIG Director, Demian Saffer, and were preceded by a review of the institute’s recent achievements. Award winners received a trophy and cash prize.
Although the awards go to a handful of people, they recognize the collective achievements of everyone who makes UTIG an exciting and great place to work.
Congratulations to all our winners!



2025 Awardees

Krista Soderlund
Director’s Circle of Excellence

Brian Horton
Director’s Circle of Excellence

Sean Gulick
Director’s Circle of Excellence

Cornelia Rasmussen
Director’s Circle of Excellence

Chris Lowery
Director’s Circle of Excellence

Sohini Dasgupta
Outstanding Graduate Student

Kaitlin Schaible
Outstanding Graduate Student

Perianne Johnson
Outstanding Postdoc

Doug Hemingway
Outstanding Early Career Researcher

Cyril Grima
Outstanding Researcher

Phyllis Gesch
Outstanding Support Staff

JJ Dupont
Outstanding Support Staff
Eleanor Picard Excellence Award
Established in 2012, the award honors the work and service of the late Eleanor Picard, whose dedication, compassion and outstanding performance enhanced the scientific reputation of the University of Texas Institute for Geophysics and made it a better place to work.

Susanne Morrison
Eleanor Picard Excellence Award