2017 is turning out to be a very good year for MU’s Department of Geological Sciences. The department is in the process of installing the first micro-CT scanner on campus, which will allow researchers across campus to analyze samples three-dimensionally without destroying them, as well as a highly customized scanning electron microscope. These instruments will be housed in a new lab overseen by Assistant Professor Jim Schiffbauer, who also has the distinction of being one of two members of the department to receive the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Award, which the NSF calls “its most prestigious award in support of the early career-development activities of those teacher–scholars who most effectively integrate research and education within the context of the mission of their organization.” Assistant Professor John Huntley, a friend and close associate of Schiffbauer’s, received the other NSF CAREER Award this year.