The University Libraries Has Announced the Recipients of the 2025-2026 Archives and Polar Archives Research Awards
The University Libraries at The Ohio State University has announced the 2025-2026 recipients of two prestigious awards supporting research. Dr. Pier Paolo Alfei is the recipient of the Archives Research Award, while Dr. Marissa Grunes has received the Byrd Center's Polar Archives Research Award. Both awards recognize exceptional scholars who will utilize the Archives' unique collections to advance knowledge of polar history and exploration.
Dr. Alfei plans to explore the Admiral Richard E. Byrd collection to write a comprehensive transnational political-military history of Operation Highjump, focusing on U.S. strategic interests in Antarctica and the contributions of Admiral Richard Evelyn Byrd. For his research, Dr. Alfei highlighted the significance of the Byrd collection, which includes extensive correspondence, policy documents, articles, and speeches, all critical to his study.
Dr. Grunes plans to utilize multiple collections to examine Antarctica's research and logistical framework evolution in the early 20th century. Her project will explore lesser-known "Heroic Age" expeditions, the leadership of Admiral Richard Byrd, and developments surrounding the International Geophysical Year. Her research will contribute to her forthcoming publication, aimed at undergraduates, early-career graduate students, and the general public.
The Archives Research Award, bestowed by the University Archives, was established in 2022. The Byrd Center's Archival Program bestows the Polar Archives Research Award, which was established in 2017. Both awards provide $6,000 in support of research that utilizes the Archives' resources.
Visit the University Libraries to learn more about the 2025-2025 recipients of the Archives Research Award and the Polar Archives Research Award.
