Thursday, February 11, 2021

Spotlight on Edible Applications Technology Division Outstanding Achievement Award: George John

Congratulations to George John for winning the Edible Application Technology Division Outstanding Achievement Award. 

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.

This spotlight will help you get to know Dr. John, including his current research and how AOCS has helped develop his career.


A brief biography: George John is a professor of chemistry and biochemistry at City College of New York. The interdisciplinary research in his laboratory is focused on molecular design of plant-based lipids, membrane mimics, soft materials, trans fat alternatives and organic materials chemistry. His work on materials from renewable resources has applications potential in food materials, energy technologies and materials science and has yielded a dozen patents. His research has been published in more than 85 papers and book chapters and has already been recognized by several international awards. Dr. John has been a member of the AOCS community since 2012 and has been an active participant in the Edible Applications Technology division programing. He has mentored and trained over 100 scientific trainees, at professional levels ranging from high school through postdoctoral fellows and visiting researchers in his Laboratory.



Can you tell us about current research?

Current research thrusts are primarily on (i) amphiphilic molecules and surfactants from biomass and their assembled soft materials and its phase behavior; (ii) oleogel technology for next-generation trans-fat alternatives, and the chemistry of biobased oil structuring agents. Multiple industries have shown keen interest and supported our research through grant funding.


What was your reaction when you learned you had won the award?

I am very honored to receive the AOCS 2021 Edible Applications Technology Division Outstanding Achievement Award. I sincerely thank AOCS and the award committee for selecting me for this award. It is a privilege to be recognized by experts in the fields of fats and oils for our contribution to science and to the EAT community. I also take this opportunity to express my gratitude to my colleagues and students for their support.

How has AOCS helped develop your career?

AOCS has been a constant support over the years, both for my professional career and personal growth through peer meetings and conferences. Furthermore, it is a great avenue for my students to participate in their annual meetings on a regular basis. As a result, they have won the best poster and oral presentation awards on multiple occasions. These instances have surely furthered the enthusiasm, confidence and positive attitude towards our work and research. Moreover, AOCS's INFORM magazine provided opportunities and a platform to present our research on oleogel technology via technical articles and highlights. In summary, AOCS positively influenced our research and is truly appreciated.


View Dr. John's CUNY profile and connect with him on LinkedIn!

Find out more about the Edible Applications Technology Division.

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