Rice University Distinction
in Research and Creative Works


Distinction in Research and Creative Works is a university award for these select undergraduates, granted at commencement, which appears on the transcript and diploma. Students who spend considerable amounts of time at the OEDK often participate in activities that go above and beyond the standard set of course requirements for their undergraduate degrees. Examples include but are not limited to

  • Extensive and continuous participation and impactful leadership in activities resulting in field work or competitions (e.g., OEDK Student Lab Leaders, Eclipse, Engineers Without Borders, Electric Car, Design for America);
  • Undergraduate design experiences at Rice or at other universities that result in presentations (oral, poster) and/or publications in conference proceedings or in journals;
  • Creative endeavors or commercial realization resulting in patents or start-up companies based on engineering design work;
  • Design projects that extend well beyond the course for additional testing, validation or delivery requirements imposed by the customer with deep demonstrated commitment from the student; or
  • Similar activities that demonstrate extended and continuous commitment to creative or design endeavors that are not within the scope of degree requirements.

Students must apply to be considered for the award, and the application must be supported by a faculty member or faculty member and OEDK staff member. The student must provide evidence of the research or creative work via electronic format (documents, slides from presentations, copies of publications or patents, or videos documenting efforts). It must be clear that the student engaged in a prolonged and continuous effort that resulted in the showcased output.

Students must declare their intent for the distinction, and submit the application found in this link by April 1 of their graduation year. Applications will be reviewed by a committee of EDES minor advisors and OEDK faculty and staff leadership.

Click Below to Apply!

Distinction in Research and Creative Works - Application




Contact us

Oshman Engineering Design Kitchen
Rice University

6100 Main Street MS 390 | Houston, Texas | 77005

Phone: 713.348.OEDK

Email: oedk@rice.edu

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