President Obama has named a University of Iowa researcher as one of 94 scientists and early engineers to receive the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers, according to a press release.

The release said UI researcher Gregory Howes, an assistant professor of physics/astronomy, was recognized for leadership in education and outreach activities.

Howe was also one of four researchers honored by NASA "for outstanding contributions to improve understanding of the dissipation of turbulence and the resulting heating of heliosphereic plasmas," the release said.

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Dean Linda Maxson said she was proud to have such high caliber researchers at the UI.

"Achieving such high distinction so early in his career bodes well for Professor Howes, his department and college, the UI, and the state of Iowa," Maxson said.

The awards were created by former President Bill Clinton in 1996.

— by Hayley Bruce