Our Research Award is given to an individual who has made a particularly outstanding research contribution to geographic information science. This may include an outstanding peer-reviewed research work, or series of works, though other modes of expression will be considered, including patents, software packages, and non-refereed publications. This award is not for lifetime achievement, but for a single contribution or a series of research works that are seminal and have significant impacts on Geographic Information Science community, made at any time prior to the award year.

Award Criteria: All researchers worldwide are eligible for the award. Current members of the Research Committee or other individuals currently holding an elected or appointed UCGIS leadership position are not eligible during their tenure with UCGIS. Nominees need not be affiliated with a UCGIS member institution.

Nominators must be delegates or members of a UCGIS member institution, former Research Award winners, or a UCGIS Fellow. UCGIS particularly encourages nominations from under-represented and marginalized groups.