Greg LeFevre, University of Iowa associate professor of civil and environmental engineering, has won the Iowa Mid-Career Faculty Scholar Award for 2026. 

LeFevre, also a researcher with IIHR—Hydroscience and Engineering, is widely recognized for his work helping communities better understand and manage pollutants that end up in rivers, lakes, and stormwater systems.

“Our 2026 Iowa Mid-Career Faculty Scholars showcase the drive, creativity, and scholarly excellence of our faculty,” says Kevin Kregel, executive vice president and provost. “We proudly support their continued growth as they advance impactful research, education, and innovations that benefit our university, Iowans, and beyond.”

LeFevre joins Casey DeRoo (Department of Physics and Astronomy), Donika Kelly (Department of English), and Mary Weber (Carver College of Medicine) as the four recipients of the award this year. 

LeFevre studies contaminants such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and compounds released as tires break down in water. His research focuses on natural approaches to cleaning stormwater, including systems that use plants, soil, and microbes to remove pollution from runoff before it reaches local waterways.

His work has shaped national conversations on water quality and earned major recognition, including a National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER Award. He has secured more than $5 million in funding from federal agencies, including NSF, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, and the U.S. Geological Survey, and has published extensively in his field.

LeFevre also is a committed teacher and mentor. He has developed core courses in environmental chemistry, microbiology, and water treatment, and his students have earned national thesis and dissertation awards.

“His achievements exemplify excellence across research, teaching, and service,” said  Allen Bradley Jr., departmental executive officer and professor of civil and environmental engineering. “His teaching and service further distinguish him as a dedicated and engaged faculty member who advances both academic programs and real-world practice.”

LeFevre earned a Bachelor of Science in environmental engineering from Michigan Technological University and Master of Science and PhD degrees in environmental engineering from the University of Minnesota. He completed postdoctoral training at Stanford University.

The award, which is in its fifth year, provides funding and development opportunities for a cohort of tenured mid-career faculty who have established national or international reputations in their disciplines and demonstrate exceptional teaching and mentorship. 

Awardees receive $25,000 per year for three years to support their scholarly activities, along with mentorship and guidance on their career development plans. The awardees participate in development activities covering research leadership, mentoring, and resource management, and will share their area of expertise at the annual Iowa Mid-Career Faculty Scholar Symposium.

The Iowa Mid-Career Faculty Scholar Award program underscores the university’s dedication to fostering faculty growth during a pivotal stage in their careers. By investing in the continued development of these scholars, the university strengthens its long-standing commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service, and supports the ongoing advancement of its academic mission.