Dr. Rahul Gomes, associate professor at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, received the 2026 Council on Undergraduate Research Outstanding Mentorship Award from the chemistry division in March, according to an April 17 announcement.
The award recognizes faculty who make significant contributions to undergraduate research mentoring. Such recognition highlights the importance of hands-on learning and collaboration in preparing students for careers beyond graduation.
Gomes currently mentors eight students presenting five projects at UW-Eau Claire’s Celebration of Excellence in Research and Creative Activity beginning April 27. “I was not expecting this at all,” Gomes said. “On a national level this is pretty big, and I am still quite surprised — it’s actually turned out to be amazing.” He added that mentoring undergraduates is central to his work: “That kind of preparation requires a lot of learning beyond the classroom, and our mentored, collaborative research… will help give them that preparation.”
Interim Chancellor Dr. Michael J. Carney praised Gomes: “Dr. Gomes is the epitome of excellence in terms of faculty mentorship for our students… He is passionate about engaging Blugolds in meaningful research and discovery, and his leadership and drive to excel creates life-changing opportunities for our students.” Dr. Alex Smith, chair emeritus of computer science who nominated Gomes, said: “This aptly exemplifies Rahul and helps explain why he is so effective as a mentor for undergraduate research students… He deserves this mid-career recognition by the Council on Undergraduate Research.” Since joining UW-Eau Claire in 2020, Gomes has mentored 72 undergraduates across disciplines such as artificial intelligence and medical imaging; his mentees have co-authored numerous articles and delivered dozens of conference presentations.
Former mentees credit their achievements to working with Gomes. Paige Keller said her experiences included presenting at major conferences and publishing journal articles: “When I saw the email that Dr. Gomes had received this award, I was filled with joy because there is no one more deserving.” Zach Caterer described his time with Gomes as transformative: “My journey… illustrates the transformative impact of his approach.” Collaborations with local organizations like Royal Credit Union provide additional career-focused opportunities for students.
The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire supports active programs such as its prominent Blugold Marching Band according to its official website. The university also contributes broadly through partnerships with entities like Mayo Clinic Health System according to its official website while offering a scenic campus shared with Mayo Clinic Health System according to its official website. Nationally recognized for quality education practices according to its official website, UW-Eau Claire emphasizes critical-thinking skills and community readiness among graduates according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Gomes plans continued work integrating health sciences with explainable artificial intelligence models while expanding student engagement through internships and capstone projects within both large healthcare systems like Mayo Clinic Health System and smaller community businesses.
