Recipients of the annual awards are nominated by their departments and selected by a committee for more than just their individual research outcomes. Awardees are also recognized for their impacts on society, reputation in the field, leadership, mentorship, and citizenship within the college and university.
Joel Brock, the Given Foundation Professor, School of Applied and Engineering Physics
Brock is widely recognized as a leader in X-ray synchrotron sources, and for the past eight years has directed the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS) – one of the largest research enterprises at Cornell – where he successfully rebuilt its physical infrastructure, funding portfolio, and management structure. CHESS has a $22.5 million annual operating budget and employs 65 people, and under Brock’s leadership is expected to open a new facility that will double its experimental space. Since joining Cornell in 1989, Brock has served as school director, among other leadership roles, and currently serves as school M.Eng. and M.S. director.
Professor Brock is one of six 2021 recipients. For more on this year's recipients, se the Cornell Chronicle story.