Student scientists showcased dynamic campus biodiesel programs and research during the 2020 National Biodiesel Conference & Expo in Tampa.
This year, 15 university-level science majors interested in learning about all aspects of the biodiesel industry received travel scholarships to attend the conference. The students come from Goldengate International College; Iowa State University; Loyola University Chicago; North Carolina State University; State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry; University of Idaho; University of Kansas; University of Minnesota and Yale University. NBB, the United Soybean Board, the National Biodiesel Foundation and the Kansas Soybean Commission sponsored the scholarships.
The students are members of the Next Generation Scientists for Biodiesel and received scholarships through the program to attend. Led by NBB, the NGSB program is designed to foster professional relationships between budding and established scientists, share accurate information, and increase collaboration with academia and the biodiesel industry.
The year 2020 also marks the 10th Anniversary of the Next Generation Scientists for Biodiesel program. Since its inception, nearly 200 students have attended the National Biodiesel Conference, gaining valuable knowledge and connections. Program alumni have gone on to work in the biodiesel industry, start their own energy or feedstock companies, manage biodiesel lab facilities, and even serve on the World Energy Council.