Dennis Grimard Distinguished User Award | Nomination Form

Use this form to nominate an individual for the Dennis Grimard Distinguished User Award. This recognition is given to users who go beyond standard expectations to make meaningful contributions to the facility and user community through their actions.

Eligibility 

• Any active MIT.nano user (MIT/academic only)
• In good standing (training up to date, etc)
• Demonstrates impact in at least one category below 

This recognition is intended for users who contributions are visible, sustained, and have a clear positive impact beyond the research work they are doing in MIT.nano. 

Award Criteria 

1. Responsible & Professional Use of MIT.nano | Demonstrates safe, respectful, and responsible use of MIT.nano facilities that goes beyond standard user expectations, contributing to a better experience for others. 

Examples:

• Proactively improves shared spaces (not just cleaning after themselves, leaving areas better than they found them)
• Helps reinforce best practices among users
• Shows consistent awareness of how their actions impact others in a shared environment 

2. Initiative & Problem-Solving | Shows proactive engagement in helping the facility run smoothly.

Examples:

• Suggests practical or safety improvements to MIT.nano facilities
• Helps prevent problems before they arise
• Goes out of their way to troubleshoot or resolve issues in a way that benefits future users. 

3. Collaboration & Community | Meaningfully contributes to a positive and collaborative user environment.

Examples:

• Helps other users navigate tools or processes
• Shares useful tips, workflows, or lessons learned with staff or with the full community to help others avoid common issues
• Is easy to work alongside in shared lab spaces
• Contributes to a culture of respect and collaboration 

4. Positive Impact on the Facility | Demonstrates clear and noticeable positive impact on MIT.nano operations, culture or user experience.   

Examples:

• Improves communication between users and staff
• Recognized by peers as helpful or reliable
• Contributes to a smoother day-to-day experience in the lab beyond their own immediate work