The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) is now accepting nominations for the George Washington Carver Award and the Rosalind Franklin Award, honoring leaders who have made significant contributions to the bio-based economy. The George Washington Carver Award, which is sponsored by the Iowa Biotechnology Association, recognizes significant contributions by individuals in the fields of agriculture and environmental biotechnology. Carver, a graduate of Simpson College and Iowa State University, pioneered the creation and commercialization of sustainable bio-based products and materials and energy derived from renewable agricultural feedstock. The Rosalind Franklin Award will be presented to a pioneering woman in the agriculture and environmental biotechnology sectors who has made significant contributions to the advancement of the bio-economy and biotech innovation. Franklin was instrumental in the discovery and the greater understanding of the molecular structure of DNA. Nominations can be submitted on the BIO website. Award winners will be honored in person at the BIO Impact Ag & Environment Conference, Sept. 19-20, in Raleigh, N.C.
