These Awards were established by the Advanced Surface Engineering Division (ASED) of the AVS in 2006 to honor and encourage outstanding graduate students carrying out research in areas of interest to ASED, with emphasis on the fields of surface engineering, thin films, and related topics. The ASED seeks to recognize students of exceptional ability who show promise for significant future achievement.

The ASED is pleased to announce the three finalists for 2008, chosen based upon the quality of their written research summaries, resumes, and evaluation letters. The selection of the winners will take into consideration the above listed application materials in addition to the quality and professionalism of their oral presentations and discussion at the 2008 ICMCTF. 

Mr. Etienne Bousser from the École Polytechnique de Montréal, Canada.  His ICMCTF abstract is entitled “Effect of Microstructure on the Erosion Resistance of Cr-Si-N Coatings".  
To be presented in Session E3 on Wednesday morning. 

Mr. Martin Moser from Leoben University, Austria. His ICMCTF abstract is entitled "Stabilization of Cubic (Ti_1-xAl_x)_1-yY_yN Thin Films by Bipolar Pulsed DC Magnetron Sputtering". 
To be presented in Session B5 on Wednesday morning. 

Mr. Martin Pfeiler from Leoben University, His ICMCTF abstract is entitled “Arc Evaporated Ti-Al-Ta-N Coatings: the Effect of Bias Voltage and Ta on High-Temperature Tribological Properties". 
To be presented in Session E1 on Monday morning. 

** Please plan to attend the ICMCTF Awards Convocation on Wednesday at 5:30 pm.