The Edward Leadbetter Memorial Scholarship is offered each year in memory of one of the founding members and a longtime organizer of NEMPET. More than anyone else, Ed exemplified the spirit of collegiality and mentorship that NEMPET strives to continue. He was involved in NEMPET from the very beginning in 1983 right up until his passing in 2015.

Ed was responsible for setting up the program and used his connections at Woods Hole to bring in well known and international speakers but it was his curiosity and passion for the science that had the biggest impact on students (and faculty) attending the meetings. It seemed that he would have a relevant question or insightful comment for every single presenter. This scholarship honors his commitment to supporting and encouraging students in the sciences.