We are delighted to share that EPS Ph.D. student David Tibbits received multiple major awards at the 2026 Tucson Gem and Mineral Show—the world’s largest and most prestigious gem and mineral exhibition.
David was awarded:
• Best in Show for the highest-scoring competitive exhibit in the Masters Division
• The Paul Desautels Memorial Trophy for the best case of minerals in the entire show
The Desautels Trophy represents one of the highest honors awarded at Tucson, and earning both distinctions in the Masters Division is an extraordinary accomplishment.
In addition, David has been invited by the competitive exhibits chairman and Arizona State Mining Inspector, Les Presmyk, to assume the role of Competitive Exhibits Chairman for the Tucson Gem and Mineral Society in the coming years—a remarkable leadership opportunity and testament to his expertise and standing within the mineralogical community.
In addition to his recent awards, David has been selected for Spectral Evolution’s highly competitive Research Partnership Program. As part of this three-week project, Spectral Evolution will loan him a hyperspectral sensor to deploy in Petrified Forest National Park in support of our uranium research. David and his collaborators will use the instrument to scan uranium minerals, downstream soils, and plants to map uranium distribution and monitor its mobility. The sensor will also be used to analyze CPCP core samples, providing additional ground-truthing for the project. Selection for this program reflects both the originality of David’s proposal and the strength of his scientific vision.
Congratulations David on this exceptional achievement.