While becoming a leader in the conservation workforce, graduate students in the Cooperative Research Unit Program work to (1) Conduct research with USGS scientists through a host university, (2) Collaborate directly with natural resource managers to inform decision making, and (3) Earn a Master of Science or Doctoral Degree.
Congratulations to our 2026 Cooperative Research Units Program Awards winners!
The Cooperative Research Units Program Awards honor outstanding achievements across the CRU network. Candidates are nominated by CRU scientists, with each nomination reviewed and scored by a selection panel. Evaluators assess contributions to the CRU's tripartite mission (research, education, and technical assistance), along with other aspects, and the highest‑scoring nominees are chosen as award recipients.
Best Student or Post-Doc Led Publication Award
Outstanding Masters Student Award
Outstanding Doctoral Student Award
Alumni Special Recognition Award
While becoming a leader in the conservation workforce, graduate students in the Cooperative Research Unit Program work to (1) Conduct research with USGS scientists through a host university, (2) Collaborate directly with natural resource managers to inform decision making, and (3) Earn a Master of Science or Doctoral Degree.
Congratulations to our 2026 Cooperative Research Units Program Awards winners!
The Cooperative Research Units Program Awards honor outstanding achievements across the CRU network. Candidates are nominated by CRU scientists, with each nomination reviewed and scored by a selection panel. Evaluators assess contributions to the CRU's tripartite mission (research, education, and technical assistance), along with other aspects, and the highest‑scoring nominees are chosen as award recipients.
Best Student or Post-Doc Led Publication Award
Outstanding Masters Student Award
Outstanding Doctoral Student Award
Alumni Special Recognition Award