Alumni of the Escola Superior de Biotecnologia of Católica and AMYRIS launch International Biotechnology Innovation Award
Amyris Innovation BIG Impact Award is the new award that aims to distinguish innovative projects in the field of Biotechnology. This competition, unique in the Portuguese biotechnology ecosystem, is an initiative of the ALUMNI Association and the Escola Superior de Biotecnologia of Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Porto, in partnership with Amyris Bio Products Portugal. The goal is to promote Innovation in Biotechnology (sustainable product or service, innovative and with benefit to society), and it is open to the whole Society.
Hugo Choupina, co-organiser of the 3rd Forum of Innovation in Biotechnology: “Fostering Smart Innovation Synergies”, explains: "the Amyris Innovation BIG Impact Award aims to distinguish ideas and/or biotechnological-based projects that carry out innovative and sustainable products/solutions in different areas, which can have a tremendous positive impact on Society and the Planet." As examples, Hugo Choupina, highlights: “fighting rare and debilitating diseases, reducing the environmental footprint, safe and efficient industrial production, clean energy, among several others.” Ana Leite Oliveira, co-organizer and faculty member of the Escola Superior de Biotecnologia of Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Porto, "the challenge is huge, but in Portugal we believe that there is the capacity to positively respond with many good and impactful projects."
Amyris Innovation BIG Impact Award: Disruption in Biotechnology
August 15 is the deadline to submit an Extended-Abstract through the Conference website. The aim is to select up to ten biotechnology-based projects. After submission and compliance with all requirements, the jury will examine the degree of innovation, market potential and the impact on sustainability of the proposed biotechnology-based innovation. The selected projects will be presented on October 9 at the 3rd Biotechnology Innovation Forum "Fostering Smart Innovation Synergies".
Within the scope of this contest, biotechnology is defined as technology that is based on cellular and bio molecular processes with the aim of developing innovative products and technologies that help to improve the health and well-being of Society and the planet (that is, to fight rare and debilitating diseases, reduced environmental footprint, safe and efficient industrial production, clean energy).
The three top ranked teams will be selected by the Scientific Committee and Forum participants and will awarded a monetary award sponsored by Amyris : the 1st place will take home 7000€, the 2nd place 2000€ and the 3rd place 1000€. The selected projects will also have access to a coaching session with the CEO of Amyris Inc., Dr. John Melo.
In this year's edition of the Biotechnology Innovation Forum “Fostering Smart Innovation Synergies”, the importance of interdisciplinary and synergies for Innovation sets the tone for several panels on topics related to Economy, Ethics, Law, Communication and Sustainability.
More information available here.