Awards

The A.R. Baldwin Distinguished Service Award recognizes long-term, distinguished service to AOCS in a variety of positions of significant responsibility. This is the Society’s highest service award and was first given in 1981 to A. Richard Baldwin. Sponsored by Cargill Inc.

For over 50 years, A. Richard Baldwin was an icon in AOCS whose vision, energy and leadership transformed the Society into the world’s premier fats and oils organization. Learn more about A. Richard Baldwin and his involvement in the Society.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $2,000 honorarium
• Up to a US $1,500 travel allowance
• Recognition during the Welcome Ceremony at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Current AOCS members that have:
  • actively supported a variety of Society activities through officer and/or committee participation
  • contributed exceptional quality of service to the Society over a substantial period of time

How do I nominate someone?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's contributions and service to the Society
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's service to the Society
• Curriculum Vitae

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Scott Bloomer, Patent Agent, Tonbo Consulting LLC

Scott Bloomer started his research career in 1973 in the laboratories of Honeywell, Inc. doing research in humidity sensors. Since then he’s been privileged to do research on smoke detectors, biosensors, enzymatic interesterification, basic oilseed processing, and the application of enzymes to milk compounds. He’s written a dozen peer-reviewed papers and has been a contributing editor for the AOCS trade magazine,INFORM, for 21 years. Bloomer managed the fats and oils patent portfolio of ADM for several years, drafting and defending patents and is listed as an inventor on a dozen patents. He retired from the American Oil Chemists’ Society in 2023 but continues to support AOCS by representing AOCS' interests on committees of Codex Alimentarius and the International Organization of Standardization.

The Alton E. Bailey Award recognizes outstanding research contributions and exceptional service in the field of fats, oils, lipids and related disciplines. Sponsored by ADM.

This award commemorates Alton Bailey's outstanding contributions to the field of fats and oils as a researcher, an author of several standard books, and as a leader in the Society. Learn more about Alton Bailey.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $750 honorarium
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Current AOCS members that have:
  • made significant contributions to the science and technology of lipids
  • demonstrated outstanding leadership and service to the Society
  • not received the Stephen S. Chang Award or Supelco AOCS Research Award in the past three years
• Self-nominations are not permitted

How do I nominate someone?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Silvana Martini, Professor, Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences, Utah State University

Dr. Silvana Martini is a Professor Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Sciences at Utah State University. She obtained a BSc in Biochemistry from the University of La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina (1997) and a PhD in Chemistry from the same institution (2003). She was a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Food Science at the University of Guelph, Canada, before joining Utah State University (2005). In 2018 Dr. Martini was appointed as director of the Aggie Chocolate Factory at Utah State University.

Dr. Martini is a pioneer in the use of high-intensity ultrasound to change the physical properties of fats. Over the years Dr. Martini published more than 130 papers in peer-reviewed journals, participated in more than 200 conferences, was an invited speaker in more than 30 international conferences, and published 11 book chapters. Dr. Martini has trained several undergraduate researchers, PhD, and MS students and received various international scholars in her lab. Dr. Martini received several local and international awards such as the Young Scientist Award from the Agricultural and Food Chemistry Division of the American Chemical Society and the Robins Award for Faculty Researcher of the Year for Utah State University, the Timothy L. Mounts Award, the 2024 Alton E. Bailey Award from the American Oil Chemists’ Society and Fellow Award from the American Oil Chemists’ Society. Dr. Martini serves as Editor-in-Chief for the Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society and is the past President of the American Oil Chemists’ Society.

The AOCS Award of Merit recognizes an AOCS Member who has displayed leadership in administrative activities, meritorious service on AOCS committees or performed an outstanding activity or service.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• Recognition during the Welcome Ceremony at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Current AOCS members that have:
  • actively demonstrated outstanding leadership and service to the Society through committee participation
  • contributed exceptional quality of service that has advanced the Society’s prestige, standing or interest
• Current Governing Board members, past presidents and honorary members of the Society are not eligible

How do I nominate someone?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's contributions and service to the Society
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishment or service to the Society
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Michael Eskin, University of Manitoba, Canada

Dr. Michael Eskin is a professor at the University of Manitoba and a Fellow of AOCS, IFT, CIFST, the Institute of Food Science and Technology in the UK, and the Royal Society of Canada. He is recognized for his work on edible oils and has played a key role in the successful development of canola oil. Michael has published over 250 research articles, book chapters, monographs, abstracts, and several patents. He has published 15 books, including two on canola. Michael has also done extensive research on enzymes and gums as well as developed a number of colorimetric methods, including one for phytate that is still used worldwide. In 2017, he was selected by the students in his faculty as Professor of the Year. He is well known for his Lipid Raps.

Michael is the recipient of many awards, including the Order of Canada in 2016 for his contributions to the world-wide success of canola oil. He served as Chair of the Lipid Oxidation Division and was the first Chair of the Division council. In addition to serving as an Associate Editor of Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society, he was co-editor of Lipid Technology for 7 years and is Associate Editor of Education for the AOCS Library. Michael was the recipient of the Stephen S. Chang Award from IFT in 2012 and AOCS in 2018. He also received the Supelco AOCS Research Award in 2020, Herbert J. Dutton Award in 2017, the Alton Bailey Medal in 2013, and the Timothy Mounts Award in 2007. He is a Companion of the Order of Canada.

The AOCS Fellow Award recognizes achievements in science and/or extraordinary service to the Society.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• Custom Fellow medal
• Fellow membership
• Recognition during the Welcome Ceremony at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Current AOCS members that have:
  • at least 15 years of continuous AOCS Membership
  • made exceptional achievements in science and/or exceptionally important service to the Society or the profession, including any of the areas of research, industrial achievement, leadership, education, administration, communication, or regulatory affairs

How do I nominate someone?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's contributions and service to the Society
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishment or service to the Society
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipients

Fabiola Dionisi, Academic Alliances and Expertise Development, Nestlé Research

Jianping Wu, Professor, Department of Agricultural, Food, & Nutritional Science, University of Alberta

Dr. Wu is a Professor of Food Proteins and Bioactive Peptides at the Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science at the University of Alberta (Edmonton, Canada). He received his BSc in Biology from Zhejiang Normal University (Jinhua, China), MSc in Plant Physiology from Hunan Agricultural University (Changsha, China), and PhD in Food Engineering from Jiangnan University (Wuxi, China), and then took various postdoctoral training at the University of Hong Kong, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, University of Manitoba, and Iowa State University. His research focuses on bioprocessing of food proteins for human health and protein sustainability. Dr. Wu has published over 270 journal articles, 3 books, 22 book chapters, 5 granted patents, and 359 presentations (of 107 invited talks) to the scientific conferences, industry, and various institutes.

Dr. Wu is a dedicated AOCS member and has served numerous roles including an organizer of numerous sessions, Vice-Chair and Chair of the Proteins and Co-Products Division. In his role as the PCP Division Chair (2016-2018), he led the establishment of the PCP Division Lifetime Achievement Award. He is noted for his encouragement and support for students and young professionals to engage and to lead the society, a key to grow AOCS.

Dr. Wu is the recipient of IFT Babcock-Hart Award, Fellow of IFT, and Agricultural and Food Chemistry Division of American Chemical Society. He is now serving as Associate editor of the Journal of Functional Foods, editor-in-chief of Food Reviews International, and an editorial board member of 6 journals.

Scott Bloomer, Patent Agent, Tonbo Consulting LLC

Scott Bloomer started his research career in 1973 in the laboratories of Honeywell, Inc. doing research in humidity sensors. Since then he’s been privileged to do research on smoke detectors, biosensors, enzymatic interesterification, basic oilseed processing, and the application of enzymes to milk compounds. He’s written a dozen peer-reviewed papers and has been a contributing editor for the AOCS trade magazine,INFORM, for 21 years. Bloomer managed the fats and oils patent portfolio of ADM for several years, drafting and defending patents and is listed as an inventor on a dozen patents. He retired from the American Oil Chemists’ Society in 2023 but continues to support AOCS by representing AOCS' interests on committees of Codex Alimentarius and the International Organization of Standardization.

Rajesh Shah, Director, Koehler Instrument Company

The Thomas H. Smouse Memorial Fellowship is awarded to graduate students doing research in fats, oils, proteins, surfactants and related materials. The purpose of this graduate fellowship is to encourage, recognize and support outstanding research in a field of study consistent with the areas of interest to AOCS.

This award was established in memory of Dr. Smouse’s dedication and enthusiasm for lipid chemistry and his commitment to family, education, and AOCS. Dr. Smouse was a long-time member and very active volunteer in AOCS, including serving as President of AOCS in 1983. As well as a noted industrial researcher into the flavor chemistry of fats and oils. Archer Daniels Midland Foundation, AOCS Foundation, AOCS, and the family and friends of Dr. Smouse established and assisted in this fellowship’s funding.

What does the recipient receive?

• Custom inscribed bookends with the recipient’s name and award details
• US $10,000 honorarium
• Up to a US $5,000 research and travel allowance
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students who are AOCS members that:
  • are conducting research at an educational institution that is conducting fundamental investigations in the chemistry of fats, oils, proteins, surfactants and related materials, with an above average interest in and aptitude for research
  • have never received the Thomas H. Smouse Memorial Fellowship
• Note: the graduate student’s major professor supervising the research must also be a current AOCS member
• Please refer to the Award Guidelines (.pdf) for the detailed eligibility guidelines

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials by October 2.

• Letter of nomination from the major professor supervising the research
• Major professor statement confirming good standing at the university (complete within the application)
• At least three letters of recommendation from deans, department heads and/or professors who have supervised the student’s most recent academic work. These letters should present essential facts regarding: 1) scholastic record, 2) character and personality, 3) interest and capability in research, 4) ability to cooperate with others, 5) capacity for work, and 6) extracurricular activities
• Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate colleges or university work completed to date

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Thilini Dissanayake, PhD Student, Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba

Thilini Dissanayake is a second-year PhD student at the Food Proteins and Bioproducts Research Lab, University of Manitoba, working under the guidance of Dr. Nandika Bandara. She completed her MSc in 2022, where her work centered on agricultural byproduct protein-based sustainable food packaging materials. Her PhD research focuses on the development of protein-based nanodelivery systems to enhance the bioavailability of bioactive compounds. Thilini obtained her bachelor’s degree from the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, in 2018. Additionally, Thilini has gained research experience at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Uppsala, Sweden, for five months, and at the University of Melbourne in Australia for two months. Beyond her involvement in research and academic work, she is someone who deeply appreciates and enjoys engaging in extracurricular activities. Currently, she is honored to hold the position of co-chair within the AOCS Students Common Interest Group.

The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) Distinguished Paper Award of the AOCS Surfactants and Detergents Division recognizes an outstanding paper published in the area of surfactants and detergents. Sponsored by the American Cleaning Institute (ACI).

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque for the main author
• Certificates for all contributing authors
• Complimentary Surfactants and Detergents Division meal ticket(s)
• Recognition at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

All papers published within Journal of Surfactants and Detergents (JSD) during the calendar year before the AOCS Annual Meeting are eligible, with the exception of papers listing author(s) who received the award within the previous three years. Authors do not need to be members of AOCS or the Division.

How do I nominate someone?

No nomination required. All JSD journal articles are automatically considered. The Surfactants and Detergents Division Chair identifies an awards committee that selects the winning paper after the 4th quarter publication of JSD. Reviews begin January 1.

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipients

Dan Lundberg, Maria Stjerndahl, and Krister Holmberg for the paper "Ester-based surfactants: Are they stable enough". DOI: 10.1002/jsde.12628

The Edwin N. Frankel Award for Best Paper in Lipid Oxidation and Quality recognizes an outstanding paper in the area of lipid oxidation or quality. This award is presented by the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division in recognition of Edwin Frankel's 50 years of lipid oxidation research. Sponsored by Kalsec.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque for the main author
• Certificates for all contributing authors
• US $300 honorarium
• Complimentary Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division meal ticket(s)
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

All papers published within an AOCS journal from October to September the year preceding the AOCS Annual Meeting that address oxidation, stability, quality, or flavor of lipids are eligible.

For example, the 2023 Edwin N. Frankel Award candidates must have a paper published between October 2021 and September 2022.

How do I nominate someone?

No nomination required. All AOCS journal articles are automatically considered. The Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Chair identifies an awards committee that selects the winning paper after the 4th quarter publication. Reviews begin January 1.

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipients

Kensuke Seki and Youji Okada for the paper “Singlet oxygen quenching activity of furan fatty acids: Kinetic and thermodynamics study”. DOI: 10.1002/aocs.12693

The A.R. Baldwin Distinguished Service Award recognizes long-term, distinguished service to AOCS in a variety of positions of significant responsibility. This is the Society’s highest service award and was first given in 1981 to A. Richard Baldwin. Sponsored by Cargill Inc.

For over 50 years, A. Richard Baldwin was an icon in AOCS whose vision, energy and leadership transformed the Society into the world’s premier fats and oils organization. Learn more about A. Richard Baldwin and his involvement in the Society.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $2,000 honorarium
• Up to a US $1,500 travel allowance
• Recognition during the Welcome Ceremony at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Current AOCS members that have:
  • actively supported a variety of Society activities through officer and/or committee participation
  • contributed exceptional quality of service to the Society over a substantial period of time

How do I nominate someone?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's contributions and service to the Society
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's service to the Society
• Curriculum Vitae

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Scott Bloomer, Patent Agent, Tonbo Consulting LLC

Scott Bloomer started his research career in 1973 in the laboratories of Honeywell, Inc. doing research in humidity sensors. Since then he’s been privileged to do research on smoke detectors, biosensors, enzymatic interesterification, basic oilseed processing, and the application of enzymes to milk compounds. He’s written a dozen peer-reviewed papers and has been a contributing editor for the AOCS trade magazine,INFORM, for 21 years. Bloomer managed the fats and oils patent portfolio of ADM for several years, drafting and defending patents and is listed as an inventor on a dozen patents. He retired from the American Oil Chemists’ Society in 2023 but continues to support AOCS by representing AOCS' interests on committees of Codex Alimentarius and the International Organization of Standardization.

The Australasian (AAOCS) Section Award of Scientific Excellence in Lipid Research is awarded to a scientist from within the Australasian region that has made a significant research contribution toward fats and oils research, either cumulatively or in a single major advancement. The award is held every second year in conjunction with the Section's biennial meeting

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• Up to an AU $1,500 travel allowance to attend the AOCS Annual Meeting
• Complimentary registration to attend and present an award lecture at the AAOCS Section biennial meeting

Who is eligible?

• Current members of the AOCS Australasian Section from the Australasian Region
• Scientists who have made significant research contributions towards fats and oils research, either cumulative (lifetime achievement) or one major advancement that holds substantial promise for its effect in the near future

How to nominate?

Award open date: to be announced
Award close date: to be announced

Below are the materials required for a nomination.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Not awarded until the Fall of 2024.

The ACI/NBB Glycerine Innovation Award of the AOCS Industrial Oil Products Division recognizes outstanding achievement for research in new applications for glycerine with emphasis on commercial viability. Sponsored by the American Cleaning Institute (ACI) and the National Biodiesel Board (NBB).

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $5,000 honorarium
• Complimentary Industrial Oil Products Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientists who have conducted research which has led to new applications for glycerine with emphasis on commercial viability
• Preference is given to research that has existing or potential commercial applications

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's original research work in applications and uses of glycerine
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Copy of one published journal article relating to the research
• Curriculum Vitae

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Mohamed El Doukkali, Professor, Department of Chemistry, University of Sultan Moulay Sliman

Dr. Mohamed El Doukkali was born on April 11, 1980, in Tangier (Morocco). He studied chemical engineering and catalysis, receiving his MSc. (2009) and PhD (2012) from the University of Basque Country (Bilbao-Spain). Since 2014, he is associate professor of physical-chemistry at the University of Sultan Moulay Slimane (Morocco), where he led various research projects focused on the development of catalytic processes for the synthesis of value-added chemicals and fuels from renewable resources. In 2021, he was awarded the excellent MSCA fellowship from the EU’s H2020 program at the University of Lille (France), where he successfully implemented his CatGTP project on “bioglycerol-to-propylene catalysis”.

The Alton E. Bailey Award recognizes outstanding research contributions and exceptional service in the field of fats, oils, lipids and related disciplines. Sponsored by ADM.

This award commemorates Alton Bailey's outstanding contributions to the field of fats and oils as a researcher, an author of several standard books, and as a leader in the Society. Learn more about Alton Bailey.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $750 honorarium
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Current AOCS members that have:
  • made significant contributions to the science and technology of lipids
  • demonstrated outstanding leadership and service to the Society
  • not received the Stephen S. Chang Award or Supelco AOCS Research Award in the past three years
• Self-nominations are not permitted

How do I nominate someone?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Silvana Martini, Professor, Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences, Utah State University

Dr. Silvana Martini is a Professor Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Sciences at Utah State University. She obtained a BSc in Biochemistry from the University of La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina (1997) and a PhD in Chemistry from the same institution (2003). She was a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Food Science at the University of Guelph, Canada, before joining Utah State University (2005). In 2018 Dr. Martini was appointed as director of the Aggie Chocolate Factory at Utah State University.

Dr. Martini is a pioneer in the use of high-intensity ultrasound to change the physical properties of fats. Over the years Dr. Martini published more than 130 papers in peer-reviewed journals, participated in more than 200 conferences, was an invited speaker in more than 30 international conferences, and published 11 book chapters. Dr. Martini has trained several undergraduate researchers, PhD, and MS students and received various international scholars in her lab. Dr. Martini received several local and international awards such as the Young Scientist Award from the Agricultural and Food Chemistry Division of the American Chemical Society and the Robins Award for Faculty Researcher of the Year for Utah State University, the Timothy L. Mounts Award, the 2024 Alton E. Bailey Award from the American Oil Chemists’ Society and Fellow Award from the American Oil Chemists’ Society. Dr. Martini serves as Editor-in-Chief for the Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society and is the past President of the American Oil Chemists’ Society.

The AOCS Award of Merit recognizes an AOCS Member who has displayed leadership in administrative activities, meritorious service on AOCS committees or performed an outstanding activity or service.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• Recognition during the Welcome Ceremony at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Current AOCS members that have:
  • actively demonstrated outstanding leadership and service to the Society through committee participation
  • contributed exceptional quality of service that has advanced the Society’s prestige, standing or interest
• Current Governing Board members, past presidents and honorary members of the Society are not eligible

How do I nominate someone?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's contributions and service to the Society
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishment or service to the Society
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Michael Eskin, University of Manitoba, Canada

Dr. Michael Eskin is a professor at the University of Manitoba and a Fellow of AOCS, IFT, CIFST, the Institute of Food Science and Technology in the UK, and the Royal Society of Canada. He is recognized for his work on edible oils and has played a key role in the successful development of canola oil. Michael has published over 250 research articles, book chapters, monographs, abstracts, and several patents. He has published 15 books, including two on canola. Michael has also done extensive research on enzymes and gums as well as developed a number of colorimetric methods, including one for phytate that is still used worldwide. In 2017, he was selected by the students in his faculty as Professor of the Year. He is well known for his Lipid Raps.

Michael is the recipient of many awards, including the Order of Canada in 2016 for his contributions to the world-wide success of canola oil. He served as Chair of the Lipid Oxidation Division and was the first Chair of the Division council. In addition to serving as an Associate Editor of Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society, he was co-editor of Lipid Technology for 7 years and is Associate Editor of Education for the AOCS Library. Michael was the recipient of the Stephen S. Chang Award from IFT in 2012 and AOCS in 2018. He also received the Supelco AOCS Research Award in 2020, Herbert J. Dutton Award in 2017, the Alton Bailey Medal in 2013, and the Timothy Mounts Award in 2007. He is a Companion of the Order of Canada.

The AOCS Corporate Achievement Award recognizes industry achievement for an outstanding process, product or contribution that has made a substantial impact on its industry segment. This award is presented every other year.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque to the company
• Certificate to any collaborating organization(s)
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• A corporation whose process, product or contribution has been successfully applied in actual commercial operation for at least six months, but no more than six years before August 1 of the year in which the nomination is submitted
• That outstanding process or product must represent a significant advancement in the application of technology in one of the areas represented by AOCS Divisions

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials by August 15:

• Letter of nomination that describes the development of the product or process under consideration, as well as its importance in terms of public health and its scientific, technological and economic impact
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the company’s products or process
• Submission of product samples, promotional videos and reprints describing the product or process may also be included

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The AOCS Fellow Award recognizes achievements in science and/or extraordinary service to the Society.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• Custom Fellow medal
• Fellow membership
• Recognition during the Welcome Ceremony at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Current AOCS members that have:
  • at least 15 years of continuous AOCS Membership
  • made exceptional achievements in science and/or exceptionally important service to the Society or the profession, including any of the areas of research, industrial achievement, leadership, education, administration, communication, or regulatory affairs

How do I nominate someone?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's contributions and service to the Society
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishment or service to the Society
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipients

Fabiola Dionisi, Academic Alliances and Expertise Development, Nestlé Research

Jianping Wu, Professor, Department of Agricultural, Food, & Nutritional Science, University of Alberta

Dr. Wu is a Professor of Food Proteins and Bioactive Peptides at the Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science at the University of Alberta (Edmonton, Canada). He received his BSc in Biology from Zhejiang Normal University (Jinhua, China), MSc in Plant Physiology from Hunan Agricultural University (Changsha, China), and PhD in Food Engineering from Jiangnan University (Wuxi, China), and then took various postdoctoral training at the University of Hong Kong, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, University of Manitoba, and Iowa State University. His research focuses on bioprocessing of food proteins for human health and protein sustainability. Dr. Wu has published over 270 journal articles, 3 books, 22 book chapters, 5 granted patents, and 359 presentations (of 107 invited talks) to the scientific conferences, industry, and various institutes.

Dr. Wu is a dedicated AOCS member and has served numerous roles including an organizer of numerous sessions, Vice-Chair and Chair of the Proteins and Co-Products Division. In his role as the PCP Division Chair (2016-2018), he led the establishment of the PCP Division Lifetime Achievement Award. He is noted for his encouragement and support for students and young professionals to engage and to lead the society, a key to grow AOCS.

Dr. Wu is the recipient of IFT Babcock-Hart Award, Fellow of IFT, and Agricultural and Food Chemistry Division of American Chemical Society. He is now serving as Associate editor of the Journal of Functional Foods, editor-in-chief of Food Reviews International, and an editorial board member of 6 journals.

Scott Bloomer, Patent Agent, Tonbo Consulting LLC

Scott Bloomer started his research career in 1973 in the laboratories of Honeywell, Inc. doing research in humidity sensors. Since then he’s been privileged to do research on smoke detectors, biosensors, enzymatic interesterification, basic oilseed processing, and the application of enzymes to milk compounds. He’s written a dozen peer-reviewed papers and has been a contributing editor for the AOCS trade magazine,INFORM, for 21 years. Bloomer managed the fats and oils patent portfolio of ADM for several years, drafting and defending patents and is listed as an inventor on a dozen patents. He retired from the American Oil Chemists’ Society in 2023 but continues to support AOCS by representing AOCS' interests on committees of Codex Alimentarius and the International Organization of Standardization.

Rajesh Shah, Director, Koehler Instrument Company

The AOCS Young Scientist Research Award recognizes a young scientist who has made a significant and substantial research contribution in one of the areas represented by AOCS Divisions. Sponsored by the International Food Science Centre A/S.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $1,000 honorarium
• Up to a US $1,500 travel allowance
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientists who:
  • are younger than 36 years old, or have received their highest degree within the previous ten years, as of June 1st of the year of presentation
  • have made significant contribution in basic or applied research and that knowledge must either have a significant effect on advances in the discipline or hold substantial promise for its effect in the near future
• AOCS membership is not required, but preference is given to members and volunteers

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents
• Date of birth provided on the nomination form

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Kaustav Majumder, Associate Professor, Food Science and Technology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Dr. Kaustav Majumder is an Associate Professor at the Department of Food Science and Technology at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln (UNL). He obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Alberta, Canada, and completed postdoctoral training at the University of Guelph, Canada. Dr. Majumder is a protein chemist with a profound inclination toward biology and is keenly interested in unraveling the intricate ways dietary proteins and peptides influence human health. His passion extends to developing peptide-based functional foods, specifically focusing on preventing and managing cardio-metabolic disorders. Dr. Majumder has authored over 50 peer-reviewed articles and contributed to 10 book chapters. He is deeply engaged in the academic community by participating in numerous international conferences. Within AOCS, Dr. Majumder's research seamlessly bridges the Health & Nutrition Division and the Protein and Co-Products Division. Presently, he is vice-chair of the Protein and Co-Products Division.

The Biotechnology Division Achievement Award recognizes a scientist, technologist or leader who has made significant contributions to the advancement of the Division’s area of interest.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $1,000 honorarium
• Complimentary Biotechnology Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientist, technologist, or leader who has made significant and meritorious achievements to areas of interest to the Biotechnology Division
• Division and/or AOCS membership is not required, but preference is given to members

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Ruojie Zhang, Assistant Research Professor, University of Missouri

The Edible Applications Technology Division Outstanding Achievement Award recognizes a scientist, technologist or leader who has made significant contributions to the Division’s area of interest or to the advancement of edible oils.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $500 honorarium
• Complimentary Edible Applications Technology Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientist, technologist, or leader who has contributed to the advancement of edible oils and/or the Edible Applications Technology Division
• Division and/or AOCS membership is not required, but preference is given to members

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Maya Davidovich-Pinhas, Professor, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology

The Health and Nutrition Division New Investigator Research Award recognizes a young scientist who is making significant and substantial research contributions in one of the areas represented by the Division’s area of interest.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $1,000 honorarium
• Complimentary Health and Nutrition Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Independent researchers or scientists who are:
  • younger than 36 years old, or have received their highest degree within the previous seven years, as of June 1st of the year of presentation
  • making significant and substantial original research contributions on the health or nutrition of fats or oils
• Preference is given to young scientists with evidence of impact of the discovery(ies) at a national or international level for the scientific community
• Division and/or AOCS membership is not required, but preference is given to members

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents
• Date of birth provided on the nomination form

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The Herbert J. Dutton Award of the AOCS Analytical Division recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the analysis of fats, oils and related products.

This award commemorates Hebert Dutton’s meritorious and long-term contributions to lipid research, with one of his most important contributions being in glyceride structure. Herbert Dutton was the first recipient to receive the award in 1993. Learn more about Herbert Dutton.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $1,000 honorarium
• Up to a US $1,000 travel allowance
• Complimentary Analytical Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientists who have made significant contributions to the analysis of fats, oils and related products which are reflected in current analytical methodologies
• The scientists’ research must have resulted in major advances in the understanding of processes utilized in the fats and oils industry
• Division and/or AOCS membership is not required, but preference is given to members

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Mark Collison, Director of Analytical Chemistry, Retired, Research, ADM

The Processing Division Distinguished Service Award recognizes and honors outstanding and meritorious service to the oilseed processing industry.

What does the recipient receive?

• Certificate
• Up to a US $1,000 travel allowance
• Complimentary Processing Division meal ticket
• Recognition at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientists who have:
  • made significant contributions to the knowledge, technology or history of the industry through their career or as a technical mentor
  • demonstrated character, ethics and a reputation that places them above their peers
• Preference is given to AOCS members involved in the Processing Division, Society, or related organizations over a substantial period of time

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The Protein and Co-Products Division Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes significant contributions to the advancement of protein and co-products through research and applications. This award is presented every other year.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• Up to a US $1,500 travel allowance
• Complimentary Protein and Co-Products Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientists, technologist, or leader who have:
  • made significant contributions to the knowledge, technology or history of the industry, through their career or as a technical mentor
  • contributed to the growth and success of the of the Protein and Co-Products Division by committing time and expertise through involvement on the leadership team or other Division committees/activities
  • demonstrated character, ethics and a reputation that places them above their peers
• Preference is given to Protein and Co-Products Division members who have more than 15 years of membership (does not need to be consecutive years)

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The Ralph Holman Lifetime Achievement Award of the AOCS Health and Nutrition Division recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the Division’s area of interest, or whose work has resulted in major advances in health and nutrition.

This award commemorates Ralph Holman’s lifetime service to the study of essential fatty acids and their impact on human health and to the Society. Dr. Holman was not only an accomplished biochemist, but a devoted father and husband, a man of integrity and a role model for students and young scientists. Learn more about Ralph Holman.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $500 honorarium
• Up to a US $1,000 travel allowance
• Complimentary Health and Nutrition Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientists who have made significant lifetime contributions in areas of interest to health and nutrition

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Marie-Caroline Michalski, Research Director, CarMeN laboratory, INRAE

Marie-Caroline Michalski (Food Engineer, PhD, ENSAIA, Nancy, France) is Research Director at the French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE). From 1999, in STLO laboratory (Rennes), she developed pioneering food science research on milk fat globules. In 2005, she joined CarMeN laboratory in Lyon to elucidate how different types of fats, oils and lipid-containing foods impact human cardiometabolic health.

Dr. Michalski has been a leading contributor to new concepts in the prevention and nutritional management of obesity, such as the “food matrix effect”, “fast vs. slow fat” (Prog Lipid Res 2013, AJCN 2013, coauthor BMJ 2019) and lipid-induced endotoxemia (JCEM 2015). Her group recently revealed the benefits of bioactive lipids of milk and plant origins, via their interaction with the gut microbiota. Coordinating a consortium of academic and industrial partners, she demonstrated the benefits of milk polar lipids on reducing cardiometabolic risk factors (Gut 2020, JCI-Insight 2021). Altogether, her works led to several research developments and industrial applications internationally, including in infant nutrition.

In CarMeN laboratory, Dr. Michalski leads a team supported by the French Foundation for Medical Research. She is an active member of lipid and nutrition scientific societies, invited to speak internationally and committed to training the next generation. Author of over 100 publications, Dr. Michalski has been awarded the European Young Lipid Scientist Award (EuroFedLipid, 2006), the Knight of the Agricultural Merit (2015), and the Chevreul Medal (SFEL, 2022). She is regularly interviewed in mainstream media, as recently in the New York Times.

The Samuel Rosen Memorial Award of the AOCS Surfactants and Detergents Division recognizes an individual who has made a significant advancement, cumulative advancements, or application of surfactant chemistry principles. This award commemorates more than 40 years of Samuel Rosen’s work as an industrial chemist on the formulation of printing inks. Initiated and sponsored by Milton J. Rosen.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• Complimentary Surfactants and Detergent Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientists or technicians who have:
  • worked most of their career within industry, preferably within the last three years of the award recognition
  • made significant advancement or application of the principles of surfactant chemistry, or cumulation of career achievements

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The Schroepfer Medal recognizes a scientist who has made significant and distinguished advances in the steroid field.

To honor the memory of George J. Schroepfer, Jr., a leader in the sterol and lipid field for more than 40 years, the Schroepfer Medal was established. The award aims to foster Schroepfer's ideals of personal integrity, high scientific standards, perseverance and a strong spirit of survival, tempered by charm and wit. Initiated by colleagues of George Schroepfer, this award is presented every other year.

What does the recipient receive?

• Bronze Medal
• Honorarium (determined by the endowed fund investment return)
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientists who have made:
  • significant and distinguished accomplishments in the steroid field, which is defined to encompass sterols and other natural and synthetic compounds incorporating the tetracyclic gonane ring system
  • fundamental advances that are primarily chemical, pharmacological, or analytical will also be considered
• Preference is given to mature scientists who have not previously received a major award at the national or international level
• Special consideration is given to interdisciplinary research in which rigorous chemical and analytical methods were applied to elucidate the biochemical and physiological roles of steroids in animals, plants, or microorganisms
• AOCS membership is not required, but preference is given to members

How to nominate?

Not awarded in 2024.

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The Stephen S. Chang Award recognizes a scientist, technologist or engineer who has made distinguished accomplishments in research for the improvement or development of products related to lipids. This award is made possible by the Stephen and Lucy Chang Endowed Fund.

Stephen Chang came to the United States in 1947 and became actively involved in AOCS after graduate studies at the University of Kansas and the University of Illinois. He served on numerous committees, including the Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society (JAOCS) editorial team and AOCS Governing Board leadership. Learn more about Stephen Chang.

What does the recipient receive?

• Jade horse sculpture
• US $1,500 honorarium
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientists, technicians, or engineers within the lipids industry who have:
  • made significant and distinguished accomplishments in basic research that have been utilized by industries for the development or improvement of products related to lipids
  • not received the Alton E. Bailey or the Supelco AOCS Research Award in the past three years

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Terry Isbell, Retired ARS Scientist, Bio-Oils Research Unit, USDA ARS MWA NCAUR

Dr. Terry A. Isbell received a B.S. in Chemistry from Bradley University in 1987 and a Ph.D in Organic Chemistry from the University of Missouri in 1991. Dr. Isbell retired from the Bio-Oils Research Unit at NCAUR after more than 30 years of service and filled many roles including Lead Scientist and Research Leader.

As a scientist Dr. Isbell has lead teams of researchers that introduced new crops throughout the U.S. Dr. Isbell discovered developed and licensed patents on new crop derivatives for lubricants and cosmetics. He also provided oversight for the analysis of thousands of germplasm samples per year as part of a multi-disciplinary team for the development of soybeans and New Crops. He has coauthored over a 130 peer reviewed manuscripts, book chapters, review articles, patents and 2 public releases of pennycress germplasm; nearly all relating to the development of new crops and vegetable based lubricants.

Dr. Isbell has twice served as President of the Association for the Advancement of Industrial Crops and recognized by them with the 2021 Anson Thompson Career Achievement Award and the 1998 Outstanding Researcher Award. Dr. Isbell received several technology transfer awards from the Federal Laboratory Consortium. Lastly, Dr. Isbell was inducted into the ARS Scientific Hall of Fame in 2022 and was part of a team that received the 2022 Secretary’s Honor Award for the development of Pennycress.

The Supelco AOCS Research Award recognizes outstanding, original research in fats, oils, lipid chemistry or biochemistry. Sponsored by MilliporeSigma.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $10,000 honorarium
• Up to a US $1,500 travel allowance
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Candidates who have:
  • outstanding original research on fats, oils, lipid chemistry, or biochemistry published in highly-cited journals, books, papers, etc.
  • not received the Alton E. Bailey Award or Stephen S. Chang Award in the past three years
• Preference is given to individuals who are actively associated with research and have made influential discoveries in their respective fields

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Dharma Kodali, Research Professor, University of Minnesota

Professor Dharma R. Kodali is a world-recognized expert in lipids and new product development and has 44 years of research experience in academia and industry. He is currently an Adjunct Professor in Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering at the University of Minnesota. Previously, he was a professor at University of Minnesota and at Boston University studying the fundamental aspects of structurally defined lipids synthesis, molecular packing, properties and their influence on metabolism and development of value-added products. His industrial experience includes working as Principal Scientist and Manager at Cargill and as a Senior Principal Scientist at General Mills, developing several new products from concept to commercialization. His primary areas of research continue to be developing value-added products from fats, oils and agricultural materials for food and industrial applications.

Professor Kodali authored 80 publications and book chapters and edited two books. He is an inventor on 30 patents. Professor Kodali’s research contributions and industrial inventions were recognized with - Stephen S. Chang Award, for distinguished accomplishments in research and development of new products, 2020; Alton E. Bailey Award, for outstanding contributions to the science and technology of lipids, 2018; AOCS Fellow, 2010; TL Mounts Award, for making significant science and technological contributions to edible oils, 2003; Industrial Innovation Award, for creativity and global welfare through innovation, American Chemical Society, 2002; and Cargill Chairman’s Innovation Award for the highest technical achievement, 2001. Professor Kodali was an invited speaker and lectured in numerous countries, including Canada, Japan, Denmark, Netherlands, Germany, Brazil, China and India.

The Surfactants and Detergents Division Distinguished Service Award recognizes outstanding and commendable service to the surfactants, detergents and soaps industry.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• Complimentary Surfactants and Detergents Division meal ticket
• Recognition at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Outstanding and meritorious service to the surfactant and detergent industry or to the Surfactants and Detergents Division over a substantial period of time
• Division and/or AOCS membership is not required, but preference is given to members

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Doug Hayes, Biosystems Eng & Soil Sci, University of Tennessee

Dr. Douglas Hayes, Institute Professor of Biosystems Engineering at the University of Tennessee (UT), received his BS at Iowa State University in 1986 and his PhD in 1991 from the University of Michigan, both degrees in Chemical Engineering. He also earned an Executive MBA-Strategic Leadership degree from UT in 2022. He served as a postdoctoral research scientist for the US Department of Agriculture from 1991-1993 and then a Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of Alabama in Huntsville from 1994-2003, before joining UT in 2004. He is also an Adjunct Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at UT. He currently serves as Editor-in-Chief of Journal of Surfactants and Detergents and is on the editorial board for three other journals. He has received several awards, including being named Fellow of the American Oil Chemists’ Society. He has coauthored over 110 journal articles, 23 book chapters and co-edited 3 books. His research interests include surfactant self-assembly systems, biodegradable plastics, environmental impacts of nanoplastics, and enzymatic reactions in nonaqueous media.

The Timothy L. Mounts Award of the AOCS Edible Applications Technology Division recognizes research related to the science and technology of edible oils or derivatives in food products, which may be basic or applied in nature.

This award commemorates Timothy Mounts as a distinguished scientist and leader who made numerous contributions to the science and technology of edible fats and oils. Learn more about Timothy Mounts.

What does the recipient receive?

• Plaque
• US $750 honorarium
• Complimentary Edible Applications Technology Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Scientists who have made significant contributions to the science and technology of edible fats and oils or derivatives in food products
• Current members of the Edible Applications Technology Division executive steering committee are not eligible
• Preference is given to early/mid-career candidates who have not received an AOCS major scientific and/or Society award

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials and answer two questions about the nominee by August 15.

• Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials
• At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Selina Wang, Associate Professor, Food Science and Technology, University of California, Davis

Dr. Selina Wang is an Associate Professor of Cooperative Extension in the Department of Food Science and Technology at the University of California, Davis. Between 2011 and 2022, Dr. Wang was the Research Director of the UC Davis Olive Center — developing collaborative projects with the university and industry and helping to find practical solutions to push the forefront of olive research and education. Her projects include purity and quality, chemistry and sensory correlation, analytical method development, standards establishment (e.g., olive oil standards for the State of California in 2014), processing advancement and byproducts management. In 2020, the Wang Lab published the first extensive study of commercial avocado oil quality and purity.

Dr. Wang was born and raised in Taiwan. She moved to the US on her own when she was 18. After completing her undergraduate degree and PhD in Chemistry, she transitioned to a career in food science. She strives to be a knowledgeable partner who provides reliable information and builds research-informed networks to address fruit and vegetable processing challenges.

The Analytical Division Student Excellence Award recognizes graduate students presenting an outstanding oral or poster presentations within the Analytical technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting.

What does the recipient receive?

• Certificate
• Complimentary AOCS Annual Meeting Registration
• Up to US $500 travel allowance
• Complimentary Analytical Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students presenting within the Analytical Division technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting who have never received the Analytical Division Student Award

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by October 2.

• Complete application questions using the Awards Portal
• Letter of support from the major advisor
• Major Advisor Ranking Form (.docx) prepared by the major advisor
• At least one letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Copy of current university/college transcript showing courses and grades
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae which includes education, work and training experiences, awards, and a full list of publications and scientific/technical meeting presentations
• Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the analytical interest area

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

The Biotechnology Division Student Excellence Award recognizes graduate students presenting outstanding oral or poster presentations within the Biotechnology technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting.

What does each recipient receive?

• Certificate
• Complimentary AOCS Annual Meeting Registration
• Up to US $500 travel allowance
• Complimentary Biotechnology Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Students presenting within the Biotechnology Division technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting:
  • whose abstract is relevant to biotechnological research and development of fats and oils
  • who have never received the Biotechnology Division Student Award

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by October 2.

• Complete application questions using the Awards Portal
• Letter of support from the major advisor
• Major Advisor Ranking Form (.docx) prepared by the major advisor
• At least one letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Copy of current university/college transcript showing courses and grades
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae which includes education, work and training experiences, awards, and a full list of publications and scientific/technical meeting presentations
• Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the biotechnology interest area

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

The Edible Applications Technology Division Student Excellence Award recognizes graduate students presenting an outstanding oral or poster presentation within the Edible Applications Technology technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting.

What does the recipient receive?

• Certificate
• Complimentary AOCS Annual Meeting Registration
• Up to US $500 travel allowance
• Complimentary Edible Applications Technology Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students presenting within the Edible Applications Technology Division technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting who have not received the Edible Applications Technology Division Student Award

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by October 2.

• Complete application questions using the Awards Portal
• Letter of support from the major advisor
• Major Advisor Ranking Form (.docx) prepared by the major advisor
• At least one letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Copy of current university/college transcript showing courses and grades
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae which includes education, work and training experiences, awards, and a full list of publications and scientific/technical meeting presentations
• Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the edible applications technology interest area

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

The Hans Kaunitz Award recognizes students conducting research related to fats, oils and detergent technology.

What does the recipient receive?

• Certificate
• US $1,000 honorarium
• Up to a $500 travel allowance
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students attending a university within the United States who have:
  • been actively involved in research dealing with fats, oils, proteins, surfactants and related materials, with a high aptitude for research
  • not previously received the Hans Kaunitz Award

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by October 2.

• Complete application questions using the Awards Portal
• Letter of support from the major advisor
• Major Advisor Ranking Form (.docx) prepared by the major advisor
• At least one letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Copy of current university/college transcript showing courses and grades
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae which includes education, work and training experiences, awards, and a full list of publications and scientific/technical meeting presentations
• Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Anto Pradeep Raja Charles, Doctoral Research Assistant, Department of Plant Sciences, North Dakota State University

Anto Charles is originally from Trichy, India. He has completed his bachelor’s in Biotechnology at Anna University (Chennai, India) and M.S in Food and Animal Science at Tennessee State University (TN, USA). He has worked in the food biotechnology industry for three and a half years as a Production Manager, leading the production of fermented beverages, nutraceuticals, plant supplements, and bioactive extracts. In addition, he also worked as a visiting scholar at Vanderbilt University researching the release kinetics of food bioactives during gastrointestinal digestion.

Currently, Anto is a Ph.D. candidate in the Food Ingredients and Biopolymers Laboratory led by Dr. Jiajia Rao at North Dakota State University (NDSU) in Fargo, North Dakota. His research is focused on improving the bioavailability and chemical stability of cannabidiol (CBD) using hemp protein-based delivery vehicles and analyzing the impact of agricultural production systems on CBD biosynthesis in plants. Anto has published 18 scientific articles and won 45 awards from various organizations for his research, academics, and leadership excellence. He holds several leadership positions in organizations, including the AOCS, Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), International Association of Food Protection (IAFP), and Phi Tau Sigma. In AOCS, he serves as a communications leader in the student common interest group and as a student representative in the Proteins and Co-Products division. In addition, he has organized and moderated AOCS career path events. Anto is passionate about pursuing an academic career with research focused on protein chemistry, nutraceuticals, food packaging, and non-thermal food processing.

The Health and Nutrition Division Student Excellence Award recognizes graduate students presenting an outstanding oral or poster presentation within the Health and Nutrition technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting.

What does the recipient receive?

• Certificate
• Complimentary AOCS Annual Meeting Registration
• Up to US $500 travel allowance
• Complimentary Health and Nutrition Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students presenting within the Health and Nutrition Division technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting who have never received the Health and Nutrition Division Student Award

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by October 2.

• Complete application questions using the Awards Portal
• Letter of support from the major advisor
• Major Advisor Ranking Form (.docx) prepared by the major advisor
• At least one letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Copy of current university/college transcript showing courses and grades
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae which includes education, work and training experiences, awards, and a full list of publications and scientific/technical meeting presentations
• Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the health and nutrition interest area

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Sumanjot Kaur, Graduate Assistant, Food Science, University of Arkansas

Sumanjot Kaur majored in Food Technology from Punjab Agricultural University, India. Later, she joined the Department of Food Science at the University of Arkansas for Masters. During her MS, Sumanjot worked on “Generating Health-Promoting Bioactive Compounds and Nanoporous Materials from Rice Processing Byproducts via Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Technology”, showcasing her commitment to pioneering methods in food science. Currently, she is a Ph.D student at the University of Arkansas and working on soybeans, further expanding her expertise in sustainable food systems.

Sumanjot has received many research recognitions, including Sustainable Food system division student oral competition winner 2023, AOCS Protein and Coproducts student eposter and pitch competition winner 2023, Impactful and innovative student research award at Agri-Food Innovation Summit, Graduate and Professional Student Congress research grant, and travel awards. Beyond her scholarly achievements, Sumanjot is a multifaceted individual actively engaged in extracurricular activities. Her participation in diverse spheres outside academia underscores her professional development, nurturing leadership, communication, financial, and organizational skills. Sumanjot Kaur stands as a shining example of academic excellence, innovation, and holistic growth, to make significant contributions in the field of food science and beyond.

The Honored Student Award encourages and recognizes graduate students doing research in one of the areas represented by AOCS Divisions. Sponsored by the AOCS Foundation.

What does each recipient receive?

• Certificate
• Up to a US $500 travel allowance for U.S. and Canada residents [or up to a US $1,000 travel allowance for recipients residing outside of those countries]
• Complimentary AOCS Annual Meeting registration, lodging and Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Current graduate students:
  • who have not begun a career in their chosen field by May 1 of the presentation year:
  • whose research is comprised of fats, oils and related fields
  • who have never received the Honored Student Award

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by October 2.

• Complete application questions using the Awards Portal
• Letter of support from the major advisor
• Major Advisor Ranking Form (.docx) prepared by the major advisor
• At least one letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Copy of current university/college transcript showing courses and grades
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae which includes education, work and training experiences, awards, and a full list of publications and scientific/technical meeting presentations
• Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipients

Stacie Dobson, PhD Candidate, Food Science, University of Guelph

Stacie Dobson is a Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Guelph supervised by Dr. Alejandro Marangoni. Her research focuses on plant protein and starch functionality in plant-based food systems. Her current project is aimed at creating a high-protein, plant-based cheese analogue and isolating plant proteins to create materials with desired functional properties. Stacie also obtained her Master’s degree under the supervision of Dr. Marangoni, where she developed a novel process for the creation of a fibrous meat analogue. Stacie also has a certificate as a Professional Culinary Chef, which has helped her further understand the food industry and create products with desired tastes and textures.

Raliat O. Abioye, PhD student, Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Ottawa

Raliat Abioye is a recipient of the 2022 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). Currently, she is a doctoral candidate in the department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences at the University of Ottawa, Canada. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Honors Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) in 2019. She has published over ten articles in peer-reviewed journals and is a three-time winner of the Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA) funded by NSERC. At UNBC, Raliat was appointed a Research Ambassador where she spent time advocating for research involvement among undergraduate students. She has recently completed her appointment as a co-Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity Coordinator with the University of Ottawa Chemistry and Biomolecular Graduate Student Association.

Xiaoyan Hu, PhD student, Food science, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Xiaoyan Hu earned her bachelor's degree in Food Science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and continued as a Ph.D. student in Dr. David Julian McClements' Lab. Her work includes studies on emulsion technology for creating plant-based adipose tissue analogs using high internal phase emulsions, emulsion gels, and complex coacervation on protein and polysaccharides, resulting in numerous publications in journals such as Food Hydrocolloids, Innovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies, and Foods. She joined international organizations such as IFT, NEIFT, AOCS, ACS-AGFD, and Phi Tau Sigma and served as the president of the ACS-AGFD UMass chapter. She has received USDA sponsorship for her Ph.D., was a finalist in the IFTSA Mars product development, received the AOCS Honored Student Award, Manley Graduate Scholarship, USDA, and numerous other awards, fellowships, and travel grants for her research and academic success. Apart from academic research, Xiaoyan actively participated in internships and attended programs for entrepreneurship.

The Industrial Oil Products Division Student Excellence Award recognizes graduate students presenting an outstanding oral or poster presentation within the Industrial Oil Products technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting.

What does the recipient receive?

• Certificate
• Complimentary AOCS Annual Meeting Registration
• Up to US $500 travel allowance
• Complimentary Industrial Oil Products Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students presenting within the Industrial Oil Products Division technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting who have never received the Industrial Oil Products Division Student Award

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by October 2.

• Complete application questions using the Awards Portal
• Letter of support from the major advisor
• Major Advisor Ranking Form (.docx) prepared by the major advisor
• At least one letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Copy of current university/college transcript showing courses and grades
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae which includes education, work and training experiences, awards, and a full list of publications and scientific/technical meeting presentations
• Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the industrial oil products interest area

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The Phospholipid Division Student Excellence Award recognizes graduate students presenting an outstanding oral or poster presentation within the Phospholipid technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting. 

What does the recipient receive?

• Certificate
• Complimentary AOCS Annual Meeting Registration
• Up to US $500 travel allowance
• Complimentary Phospholipid Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students presenting within the Phospholipid Division technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting who have never received the Phospholipid Division Student Award

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by October 2.

• Complete application questions using the Awards Portal
• Letter of support from the major advisor
• Major Advisor Ranking Form (.docx) prepared by the major advisor
• At least one letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Copy of current university/college transcript showing courses and grades
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae which includes education, work and training experiences, awards, and a full list of publications and scientific/technical meeting presentations
• Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the phospholipid interest area

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The Processing Division Student Excellence Award recognizes graduate students presenting an outstanding oral or poster presentation within the Processing technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting.

What does the recipient receive?

• Certificate
• Complimentary AOCS Annual Meeting Registration
• Up to US $500 travel allowance
• Complimentary Processing Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students presenting within the Processing Division technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting who have never received the Processing Division Student Award

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by October 2.

• Complete application questions using the Awards Portal
• Letter of support from the major advisor
• Major Advisor Ranking Form (.docx) prepared by the major advisor
• At least one letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Copy of current university/college transcript showing courses and grades
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae which includes education, work and training experiences, awards, and a full list of publications and scientific/technical meeting presentations
• Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the processing interest area

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The Surfactants and Detergents Division Student Excellence Award recognizes graduate students presenting an outstanding oral or poster presentation within the Surfactants and Detergents technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting.

What does the recipient receive?

• Certificate
• Complimentary AOCS Annual Meeting Registration
• Up to US $500 travel allowance
• Complimentary Surfactants and Detergents Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students presenting within the Surfactants and Detergents Division technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting who have never received the Surfactants and Detergents Division Student Award

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by October 2.

• Complete application questions using the Awards Portal
• Letter of support from the major advisor
• Major Advisor Ranking Form (.docx) prepared by the major advisor
• At least one letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the candidate's accomplishments
• Copy of current university/college transcript showing courses and grades
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae which includes education, work and training experiences, awards, and a full list of publications and scientific/technical meeting presentations
• Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the surfactants and detergents interest area

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The Thomas H. Smouse Memorial Fellowship is awarded to graduate students doing research in fats, oils, proteins, surfactants and related materials. The purpose of this graduate fellowship is to encourage, recognize and support outstanding research in a field of study consistent with the areas of interest to AOCS.

This award was established in memory of Dr. Smouse’s dedication and enthusiasm for lipid chemistry and his commitment to family, education, and AOCS. Dr. Smouse was a long-time member and very active volunteer in AOCS, including serving as President of AOCS in 1983. As well as a noted industrial researcher into the flavor chemistry of fats and oils. Archer Daniels Midland Foundation, AOCS Foundation, AOCS, and the family and friends of Dr. Smouse established and assisted in this fellowship’s funding.

What does the recipient receive?

• Custom inscribed bookends with the recipient’s name and award details
• US $10,000 honorarium
• Up to a US $5,000 research and travel allowance
• Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students who are AOCS members that:
  • are conducting research at an educational institution that is conducting fundamental investigations in the chemistry of fats, oils, proteins, surfactants and related materials, with an above average interest in and aptitude for research
  • have never received the Thomas H. Smouse Memorial Fellowship
• Note: the graduate student’s major professor supervising the research must also be a current AOCS member
• Please refer to the Award Guidelines (.pdf) for the detailed eligibility guidelines

How to nominate?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following nomination materials by October 2.

• Letter of nomination from the major professor supervising the research
• Major professor statement confirming good standing at the university (complete within the application)
• At least three letters of recommendation from deans, department heads and/or professors who have supervised the student’s most recent academic work. These letters should present essential facts regarding: 1) scholastic record, 2) character and personality, 3) interest and capability in research, 4) ability to cooperate with others, 5) capacity for work, and 6) extracurricular activities
• Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate colleges or university work completed to date

View the list of past winners.

2024 Recipient

Thilini Dissanayake, PhD Student, Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba

Thilini Dissanayake is a second-year PhD student at the Food Proteins and Bioproducts Research Lab, University of Manitoba, working under the guidance of Dr. Nandika Bandara. She completed her MSc in 2022, where her work centered on agricultural byproduct protein-based sustainable food packaging materials. Her PhD research focuses on the development of protein-based nanodelivery systems to enhance the bioavailability of bioactive compounds. Thilini obtained her bachelor’s degree from the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, in 2018. Additionally, Thilini has gained research experience at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Uppsala, Sweden, for five months, and at the University of Melbourne in Australia for two months. Beyond her involvement in research and academic work, she is someone who deeply appreciates and enjoys engaging in extracurricular activities. Currently, she is honored to hold the position of co-chair within the AOCS Students Common Interest Group.

The Canadian Section Student Support Grant assists graduate students in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the Canadian Section and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to six.

What does the recipient(s) receive?

• Certificate
• Complimentary AOCS Annual Meeting student registration
• Complimentary Canadian Section meal ticket
• Opportunity to present in the technical program during the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students at a Canadian University who have:
  • not already received their graduate degree, or begun their career employment prior to May of the presentation year
  • never received the Canadian Section Student Support Grant

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by December 18.

• Application statement (300–500-words) describing the significance of the applicant’s accomplishments and progress in research, as well as clearly demonstrates how the applicant’s research interests are consistent with scope and activities of the Section
• Copy of the abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting
• Graduate program name and year within the program

2024 Recipient

Cameryn Sanders, MSc student, Food Science, University of Guelph

The European Section Early Career Travel Grant assists junior-level researchers in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the European Section and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to two.

What does the recipient(s) receive?

• Certificate
• Individual grants limited to no more than €750
• Opportunity to present in the technical program during the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Early career professionals (less than seven years of employment) at a European institution of higher learning or research laboratory who have not previously received the European Section Early Career Travel Grant
• Preference given to early career professionals who demonstrate an interest in becoming active in the European Section
• Full professors are not eligible

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by December 18.

• Application statement (300–500-words) describing the significance of the applicant’s accomplishments and progress in research, as well as clearly demonstrates how the applicant’s research interests are consistent with scope and activities of the Section
• Two-page Curriculum Vitae which includes grant procurement, students supervised and published papers
• Copy of the abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The European Section Student Travel Grant assists current or past Ph.D. students in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the Section and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to two.

What does the recipient(s) receive?

• Certificate
• Individual grants limited to no more than €750
• Opportunity to present in the technical program during the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students at a European University who have:
  • not already received their graduate degree, or begun their career employment prior to May of the presentation year
  • never received the European Section Student Travel Grant

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by December 18.

• Application statement (300–500-words) describing the significance of the applicant’s accomplishments and progress in research, as well as clearly demonstrates how the applicant’s research interests are consistent with scope and activities of the Section
• Copy of the abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting
• Graduate program name and year within the program

2024 Recipients

Henriette Brykczynski, PhD candidate, Food Process Engineering, TU Berlin

Ivana A. Penagos, PhD Student, Department of Food Technology, Safety And Health, Ghent University

Elena Keuleyan, Ph.D. Student, Biopolymers, Interactions, Assemblies, INRAE

The Industrial Oil Products Division Early Career Travel Grant assists junior-level researchers in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the Industrial Oil Products Division and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to two.

What does the recipient(s) receive?

• Certificate
• Individual grants limited to no more than US $750
• Complimentary Industrial Oil Products Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present in the Industrial Oil Products technical program during the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Early career professionals (less than seven years of employment) at any institution of higher learning or research laboratory who have not previously received the Industrial Oil Products Division Early Career Travel Grant
• Preference given to early career who demonstrate an interest in becoming active in the Industrial Oil Products Division
• Full professors are not eligible

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by December 18.

• Application statement (300–1,000-words) describing the significance of the applicant’s accomplishments in research and demonstrates how research interests are consistent with activities of the Industrial Oil Products Division
• Two-page Curriculum Vitae which includes grant procurement, students supervised and published papers
• Copy of the abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting

2024 Recipient

Not awarded in 2024.

The Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Early Career Travel Grant assists junior-level researchers in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to three.

What does the recipient(s) receive?

• Certificate
• Individual grants limited to no more than US $1,000
• Complimentary Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present in the Lipid Oxidation and Quality technical program during the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Early career professionals (less than seven years of employment) at any institution of higher learning or research laboratory who have not previously received the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Early Career Travel Grant
• Preference given to early career professionals who demonstrate an interest in becoming active in the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division
• Full professors are not eligible

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by December 18.

• Application statement (300–1,000-words) describing the significance of the applicant’s accomplishments in research and demonstrates how research interests are consistent with activities of the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division
• Two-page Curriculum Vitae which includes grant procurement, students supervised and published papers
• Copy of the abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting

2024 Recipient

Ruchira Nandasiri, Doctor/Post-Doctoral Fellow, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre

The Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Student Travel Grant assists graduate students in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to four.

What does the recipient receive?

• Certificate
• Individual grants limited to no more than US $1,000
• Complimentary Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division meal ticket
• Opportunity to present in the Lipid Oxidation and Quality technical program during the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students who have:
  • not already received their graduate degree, or begun their career employment prior to May of the presentation year
  • never received the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Student Travel Grant
• Professors are limited to nominating one student per year for this grant

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by December 18.

• Application statement (300–500-words) describing the significance of the applicant’s accomplishments and progress in research, as well as clearly demonstrates how the applicant’s research interests are consistent with scope and activities of the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division
• Copy of the abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting
• Graduate program name and year within the program

2024 Recipients

Tobias Pointner, BSc, MSc, Doctoral Researcher, University of Vienna

Chenge Wang, Graduate Student, Teaching Assistant, Food Sciencem, Rutgers University

Zixuan Gu, PhD candidate, Plant Sciences, North Dakota State University

The Protein and Co-Products Division Student Travel Grant assists graduate student presenters in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the Protein and Co-Products Division and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to five.

What does each recipient receive?

• Certificate
• US $200 honorarium
• Complimentary Protein and Co-Products Division meal ticket

Who is eligible?

• Graduate students who have:
  • not already received their graduate degree, or begun their career employment prior to May of the presentation year
  • never received the Protein and Co-Products Division Student Travel Grant

How to apply?

Login to the Awards Portal to submit the following application materials by December 18.

• Application statement (300–500-words) describing the significance of the applicant’s accomplishments and progress in research, as well as clearly demonstrates how the applicant’s research interests are consistent with scope and activities of the Protein and Co-Products Division
• Copy of abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the protein and co-products interest area
• Graduate program name and year within the program

2024 Recipients

Laura Hanley, MSc Student, Department of Food Science, University of Guelph

Emerson Nolasco, Research assistant, Food Science and Technology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Prabhashis Bose, Graduate Research Assistant, Food Science and Technology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Cristina Chairez, PhD student, School of Engineering and Sciences, Tecnologico De Monterrey