The Nazir and Mary Ansari Medal for Excellence in Science was established in 2007 by the Ansaris through the DRI Research Foundation to recognize institute faculty for their outstanding contributions to science and entrepreneurialism. The award provides recognition for outstanding research contributions through program building, publications, and/or patents and intellectual property. The medal will be awarded each year to a faculty member or post-doctoral researcher at DRI. The medal is presented for accomplishments over a one to three year period of performance. The recipient receives a $2,000 prize to the recipient and will also be required to give lectures in Las Vegas and Reno.
Joe McConnell, a Research Professor in the Division of Hydrologic Sciences has been awarded the inaugural Nazir and Mary Ansari Medal for Excellence in Science in January, 2008.