EARTH Celebrates Excellence in KU Engineering Awards and New Faculty
Lawrence, Kansas — September 21, 2026 — The NSF Engineering Research Center – Environmentally Applied Refrigerant Technology Hub (EARTH) celebrates the achievements of its faculty and staff recognized by the University of Kansas School of Engineering.
At the KU Engineering Awards and Welcome Reception on Sept. 9, the School of Engineering recognized outstanding faculty and staff for their contributions to research, education, service and the university community. Among this year’s honorees was EARTH Director Dr. Mark Shiflett, who received the Bellows Scholar Award for Outstanding Contributions to Engineering Education. The award recognizes his contributions to engineering education and reflects his continued commitment to mentoring students and advancing interdisciplinary engineering research.
EARTH also congratulates Jessica Tami, who received the Staff Award for Outstanding Service to Research. As an EARTH Research Project Manager, Jessica plays an important role in supporting the center’s research activities and collaborative efforts. Her dedication and contributions help advance EARTH’s mission to develop innovative technologies and solutions for a more sustainable refrigerant economy.
Growing the EARTH Community
This year brought two exciting new additions to the EARTH community. Dr. Zach Campbell joined the KU Department of Chemical & Petroleum Engineering as an assistant professor, bringing new expertise and perspectives that will further strengthen opportunities for collaboration and innovation within EARTH. Jennifer Sprague also joined the center as its new Education and Workforce Development Director, where she will help advance EARTH’s efforts to educate and prepare the next generation of engineers and professionals.
At the heart of EARTH are the people who bring their expertise, creativity and dedication to our shared mission. From faculty and students advancing innovative research to staff supporting the collaborations that make our work possible, each member contributes to the center’s continued momentum.
Congratulations to Dr. Shiflett and Jessica, and welcome to Dr. Campbell! We are grateful for all that our team brings to EARTH and look forward to the discoveries, collaborations and accomplishments still ahead.