Not every professor devotes free time to researching issues of worldwide importance or stands at the forefront of the environmental preservation movement.

Then again, Dr. Allison Snow is not just any professor.

After returning from a work-related trip to Austria, Snow, a professor of evolution, ecology and organismal biology, paused briefly in her office before venturing to China for her next series of meetings and seminars.

Frequent travel is nothing new for the globally renowned researcher, who was recognized earlier this year by Ohio State for her contributions to the world of science.

In May, Snow was presented with the Distinguished Scholar Award, an honor unique to OSU, that recognizes outstanding research accomplishments and leadership skills.

“It shows that the university cares about teaching and scholarship,” Snow said. “To me, that’s the most important part of a university.”

Snow was one of six scholars presented with the award, the only recipient in her department.

“It is specifically an award for research and studies,” said Dr. Ralph Boerner, who has served as chairperson of the EEOB department since its beginning five years ago.

“I think she was chosen on merit,” he said. “She is an outstanding researcher, a visionary. She is known around the world and has been invited to do research and speak for many prestigious groups.”

Snow serves on a study committee for groups such as the United Nations and the National Academy of Sciences.

Recipients of the award, which is presented annually at the Distinguished Teaching, Service and Scholar Awards, are nominated by a committee comprised of faculty, staff and students. The criteria include examples of leadership in the field of study, significant accomplishments and impact on the department, university and students.

“We thought she merited the award,” said Dr. Thomas Grubb Jr., a professor of EEOB and chair of the awards committee that nominated Snow. “Her career has been rapidly ascending in importance and her research is renowned and significant worldwide.”

Grubb said that the honor not only recognizes Snow’s accomplishments and dedication, but also brings prestige to the university and heightens the value of a degree from OSU.

The Distinguished Scholar Award is funded by the Office of Research, which presents each recipient with a $3,000 honorarium and a $20,000 research grant to be used within three years.

“It’s not just dollars,” Snow said. “What’s satisfying is that they look at the caliber of your work.”

The professor’s quality of work not only lies in research, but also extends into the classroom.

“Dr. Snow is very enthusiastic about what she does and how she presents the material,” said Jason Jurey, a senior in natural resources. “She is extremely knowledgeable and always covers all of the important information.”

Snow, who has worked at OSU for 14 years as a professor and researcher, specializes in plant ecology and hybridization of crops. Her recent studies emphasize breeding systems, conservation biology and interdisciplinary work in genetics.