College students majoring in scientific fields of study have a unique opportunity to learn about all facets of the biodiesel industry, and to make connections that could last a lifetime. Student members of the Next Generation Scientists for Biodiesel can apply for a travel scholarship to attend the National Biodiesel Conference & Expo, Jan. 20 – 23 in Tampa, Florida.

Students can also apply to present a poster, and a few will be chosen to present on their research or outreach activities in a breakout session.

Next Generation Scientists for Biodiesel is a National Biodiesel Board program intended to foster professional relationships between budding and established scientists, share accurate information and increase collaboration with academia and the biodiesel industry.

In addition to presenting in the poster session and breakout session, opportunities include a preconference biodiesel educational overview and a private mentoring mixer with prominent biodiesel scientists.

Last year, more than 20 students attended the event from schools including Purdue University, University of California Riverside and Yamaguchi University in Japan. Many of the students, who came from a wide range of disciplines, noted the impact the event made on them.

“I am not the same person after I came back from the conference,” said Tatiana Mello, who attended from Louisiana State University. “The many new concepts, regulations and issues presented during this fast-paced event prepared me much better on the entire business. This without mentioning the amazing networking. We were taken out of our natural habitat, where we only have academic conversations, and faced industry experts, farmers, salespeople, and others in the industry.”

The National Biodiesel Board, the United Soybean Board and the National Biodiesel Foundation sponsor the scholarships, which amount to a $600 travel reimbursement and complimentary registration (a $1,200 value).

Apply here by Nov. 21.