MIT Professors Jacob Andreas and Brett McGuire Recognized with 2026 Harold E. Edgerton Faculty Achievement Award

Celebrating Excellence: Jacob Andreas and Brett McGuire Win 2026 Harold E. Edgerton Faculty Achievement Award

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) continues its legacy of academic excellence with the announcement of the 2026 Harold E. Edgerton Faculty Achievement Award recipients: Associate Professors Jacob Andreas from the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) and Brett McGuire from the Department of Chemistry. This prestigious award, established in 1982, honors exceptional teaching, research, and service, reflecting the enduring influence of Institute Professor Emeritus Harold E. Edgerton.

A Revolutionary Approach to Carbon in Space

Brett McGuire’s work is transforming our understanding of the cosmos. As noted by Department Head Matthew D. Shoulders, McGuire has been pivotal in bridging laboratory spectroscopy and radio astronomy, using advanced signal-analysis techniques to extract molecular fingerprints from the faintest data. His groundbreaking discovery of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the cold interstellar medium has opened new avenues for astrochemistry, enhancing our comprehension of how carbon compounds evolve in space.

McGuire’s innovative spirit drives his research at the intersection of physical chemistry, molecular spectroscopy, and observational astrophysics. With a series of accolades, including a Sloan Fellowship and the prestigious Beckman Young Investigator Award, McGuire exemplifies the kind of faculty member who not only excels in research but also brings inspiring energy to the classroom.

Bridging Language and Technology

Jacob Andreas represents the cutting-edge synthesis of computational linguistics and artificial intelligence. As described by Asu Ozdaglar, the EECS department head, Andreas is an extraordinary innovator who seamlessly integrates theory and practical applications in language learning. His research focuses on the computational foundations of natural language processing (NLP), aiming to develop systems capable of learning from human input.

Andreas has played a crucial role in modernizing the NLP curriculum at MIT, developing advanced courses that incorporate current trends while addressing ethical considerations in technology deployment. His commitment to education and mentorship has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his impressive array of awards, including MIT’s Kolokotrones and Junior Bose teaching awards.

A Legacy of Teaching Excellence

Both Andreas and McGuire are celebrated for their contributions to education. Andreas has established a modern two-course sequence that has become a cornerstone for the AI+D major, attracting hundreds of students each semester. His courses connect classical linguistic theories with the latest machine learning techniques, earning him a reputation that places MIT at the forefront of NLP studies around the globe.

In a similar vein, McGuire volunteered to teach the General Institute Requirement (GIR) course, 5.111 (Principles of Chemical Science), which typically draws between 150 and 500 students. His engaging lecture style and ability to simplify complex physical chemistry concepts have garnered him outstanding teaching evaluations, with students praising his humor and clear explanations.

Building a Collaborative Community

Both awardees have made significant contributions outside of their research and teaching responsibilities. McGuire’s extensive public outreach efforts and active involvement in the astrochemical community exemplify his dedication to service. His organizational skills are lauded, and he has become a revered figure among colleagues, students, and staff alike.

“Brett is an outstanding faculty member who is dedicated to fostering student learning and success,” shares Jennifer Weisman, Assistant Director of Academic Programs in Chemistry. Meanwhile, Andreas’s courses foster discussions around social and ethical issues in machine learning, helping students navigate the complexities of modern technology.

Looking Ahead

In their acceptance of the Edgerton Faculty Achievement Award, both Andreas and McGuire expressed heartfelt gratitude for the mentorship and support they have received during their time at MIT. McGuire remarks, “I’m incredibly grateful for the mentorship, enthusiasm, and support I have received from my colleagues, students, and the MIT community. I look forward to many more years of exciting discovery together.”

As the MIT community celebrates these exceptional scholars, it is clear that Andreas and McGuire embody the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and dedication that defines the Institute. Their achievements not only enhance the academic landscape at MIT but also inspire the next generation of scientists, researchers, and leaders in their respective fields.