Originally published by Xoel Cardenas, Sr. Communications Specialist, Office of the Vice President for Research
EGI’s Dr. John McLennan, USTAR Professor with the Department of Chemical Engineering, is named one of the 2025 Distinguished Research Award recipients at the University of Utah.
Since 2009, USTAR Professor John McLennan has been a faculty member in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Utah. Before joining the U, McLennan had nearly thirty years of experience with petroleum service and technology companies.
An expert in such diverse energy research as coalbed methane recovery, mechanical properties determinations, produced water and drill cuttings reinjection, he has worked on hundreds of subsurface energy recovery and storage projects. As co-principal investigator of the Utah FORGE geothermal project, he has been a leader in enhanced geothermal science and engineering, including developing innovative directional drilling and stimulation techniques for the Utah FORGE project.
The 2025 Distinguished Research Awards honor four University of Utah faculty members whose work exemplifies lasting impact, discovery, and public good.
At the University of Utah, research doesn’t just stay in the lab—it moves into the world. The 2025 Distinguished Research Award honors four faculty members whose work exemplifies this mission: advancing knowledge while improving lives. Their research has led to new technologies, therapies, tools, and understanding—both locally and globally.
Presented by the Office of the Vice President for Research, the Distinguished Research Award recognizes sustained contributions to discovery, creativity, and public impact. Winners receive a $10,000 grant and will be honored at General Commencement in May.
This year’s recipients are leaders in neuroscience, biochemistry, energy systems, and mental health innovation. They represent what’s possible when research is rigorous, purpose-driven, and relentlessly curious.
History of the Distinguished Research Award
The first recipient of the Distinguished Research Award was Professor Leroy J. Robertson in 1965. Professor Robertson was a pivotal scholar in the Department of Music who pioneered music training and culture in the Intermountain West. Over the next six decades, we have honored faculty across the university, though the award remains quite selective. Fewer than 170 faculty have received the Distinguished Research Award since it began.
See the full list of 2025 Distinguished Research Award recipients here.