The School of Science has announced the winners of its 2025 Awards for Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring. This year, the Teaching Prizes were restructured to acknowledge early- and mid-career teaching excellence, in addition to an overall prize for teaching excellence that includes instructors and non-tenured instructors or lecturers.

Olivia Corradin, assistant professor of biology and a member of the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, received an Award for Teaching Excellence. Corradin’s nominators emphasized that she is an exceptionally clear and engaging educator. 

Julien Tailleur, associate professor of physics, received an Award for Excellence in Mentoring and Advising in recognition of his dedication to mentorship. Nominators describe Tailleur as an outstanding research supervisor and group leader who cultivates an open and respectful environment.

John Urschel, Class of 1956 Career Development Assistant Professor of Mathematics, received an Award for Teaching Excellence. Many students call Urschel the best instructor they have had and their favorite professor at MIT, noting that he cares greatly about his students’ success and shows them why linear algebra is “so cool.”

Recipients of the School of Science Awards for Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring were honored alongside School of Science Infinite Expansion and Mile Award winners at a celebratory luncheon. 

The School of Science welcomes nominations for the teaching prize at the end of each semester. Nominations can be submitted to the School.