The George Washington Carver Award was created to recognize significant contributions by individuals in the fields of industrial biotechnology and agriculture, and applications in biological engineering, environmental science, biorefining and biobased products. This award will emphasize the important goal of using biotech innovation to develop sustainable biobased value-chains.  By honoring those who have worked successfully toward this goal in the private sector, government or academia, this award will serve as a lasting memorial to the original vision of George Washington Carver who, over a century ago, pioneered the creation and commercialization of sustainable biobased products and materials and energy derived from renewable agricultural feedstock.

Nominee Criteria

Just as George Washington Carver exhibited vision, creativity and persistence, nominees should exhibit traits of innovation and pioneering efforts in the field of industrial biotechnology and agriculture and related areas. Those submitting nominations should single out individuals who have demonstrated significant and innovative accomplishments that have employed industrial biotechnology and agriculture to facilitate the advancement of a biobased economy and industrial sustainability.  Nominations should highlight contributions of the nominee to the important goal of using industrial biotechnology and agriculture innovation to develop sustainable biobased value-chains. In addition, examples of the pioneering and entrepreneurial spirit of the nominee should be articulated.