BISMiS-Goodfellow Prize
The BISMiS-Goodfellow Prize is established in honour of Professor Michael Goodfellow, a founding member of the Bergey’s International Society for Microbial Systematics (BISMiS) and a distinguished figure in prokaryotic systematics. His research not only advanced our understanding of microbial diversity but also inspired generations of scientists dedicated to exploring the microbial world.
His meticulous research led to the discovery and classification of numerous novel species, enriching scientific knowledge and setting new standards for microbial taxonomy. His contributions to Bergey’s Manual of Systematic Bacteriology further solidified his influence, providing foundational knowledge for researchers worldwide. His legacy is also immortalized in the genus Goodfellowiella and the species Nocardia goodfellowii, Pseudoleptotrichia goodfellowii, and Salinispora goodfellowii—a lasting tribute to his profound impact on the field.
The BISMiS-Goodfellow Prize serves as a tribute to his extraordinary contributions to prokaryotic systematics and his lasting impact on the field. This biennial award recognizes researchers who have demonstrated significant advancements in prokaryotic systematics, reflecting the spirit of discovery and scientific excellence that defined Professor Goodfellow's life. Through this prize, BISMiS honours his legacy and inspires future generations.
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Introduction
The BISMiS-Goodfellow Prize is established in honour of the late Professor Michael Goodfellow, a founding member of the BISMiS, Chair of Bergey’s Manual Trust, and distinguished figure in prokaryotic systematics.
This prize recognizes and celebrates outstanding contributions to prokaryotic systematics made by early-career researchers who have demonstrated excellence and innovation in the field.
By awarding this prize, BISMiS seeks to preserve Professor Michael Goodfellow’s legacy and inspire future generations in microbial taxonomy.
The prize is administered by BISMiS on behalf of Bergey’s Manual Trust.
Objectives
- Honour the Legacy of Professor Michael Goodfellow: Commemorate his contributions to prokaryotic systematics and his mentorship of early career researchers.
- Recognize Excellence in Prokaryotic Systematics: Acknowledge individuals whose research has significantly advanced the field.
- Inspire and Support Future Researchers: Provide a platform for awardees to share their research and vision, fostering the next generation of researchers in prokaryotic systematics.
Eligibility Criteria
- An individual cannot be awarded the BISMiS-Goodfellow Prize more than once.
- The nominator must be a full or lifetime member of BISMiS.
- A nominee must be an early-career researcher either conducting doctoral studies or within five years of obtaining their doctoral degree in prokaryotic systematics and has demonstrated significant contributions to prokaryotic systematics.
- The awardee must attend the upcoming BISMiS meeting, where they will receive the prize and deliver a lecture.
Application Process
Nomination Process:
- Submission of Nomination: Nomination key dates will be announced before an upcoming BISMiS meeting. Nominators must be full or lifetime BISMiS members and submit a completed nomination form. Self-nominations are not allowed.
- Review and Evaluation: The ad hoc BISMiS-Goodfellow Prize Committee will review all eligible nominations. Nominations will be assessed based on research innovation, scientific contributions, and impact on the field of prokaryotic systematics.
Award Process:
- Ad Hoc BISMiS-Goodfellow Prize Committee: Composed of five senior figures in prokaryotic systematics appointed by the BISMiS Executive Board. The Committee will review nominations and make a final decision. Members of the Committee cannot be nominators of candidates currently under consideration and must recuse themselves in other cases of conflicts of interest.
- Decision-Making: The final decision will be made by a majority vote of the committee.
Presentation
Award Presentation and Lecture
- Award Presentation: The award would be presented at the biennial BISMiS meeting in a dedicated session within the conference program.
- Prize Lecture: The awardee will deliver a lecture on their research, sharing insights with the BISMiS community. This lecture will be presented both at the biennial BISMiS meeting and as part of a BISMiS Live session.
Funding and Logistics
- A USD 2,500 prize will be awarded to support BISMiS meeting registration fee, travel expenses and accommodation.
Conclusion
The BISMiS-Goodfellow Prize Lecture serves as a meaningful tribute to Professor Michael Goodfellow’s legacy while reinforcing BISMiS’s and Bergey’s Manual Trust commitment to excellence and innovation in prokaryotic systematics. By recognizing and supporting early-career researchers, this award will continue to inspire and cultivate future leaders in the field.
Contribute to the Prize Fund
The BISMiS-Goodfellow Prize is designed as a lasting tribute to the legacy of Professor Michael Goodfellow, recognizing and celebrating excellence in prokaryotic systematics. To ensure the longevity and impact of this award, the prize fund will rely on public donations, institutional contributions, and strategic financial management to maintain its sustainability.
We invite friends, members of the scientific community and organizations committed to microbial taxonomy to contribute to this meaningful initiative. Your support will directly impact the careers of emerging researchers and help sustain this tribute to Professor Michael Goodfellow’s remarkable legacy.
Support the Prize
For sending wires from the United States:
- Receiving Bank: Synovus
- Receiving Bank ABA/Routing Number: 061100606
- Bank Address: 1148 Broadway, Columbus GA 31901
- Beneficiary Name: BISMiS Goodfellow Memorial Fund
- Beneficiary Account Number: 01020526735
For sending wires from outside the United States in USD:
(for other currencies contact bismis.net@gmail.com)
- Receiving Bank: Synovus
- Receiving Bank SWIFT BIC: FICOUS44
- Bank Address: 800 Shades Creek Parkway, Birmingham, Alabama 35209
- ABA Routing Number: 061100606
- Beneficiary Name: BISMiS Goodfellow Memorial Fund
- Beneficiary Account Number: 01020526735