Celebrating Rubber Science Innovators of 2026

In 2026, the Rubber Division of the American Chemical Society (ACS) will shine a spotlight on some of the brightest minds in rubber science and technology. These awards, known as the Science & Technology Awards, are considered the highest honors in the industry. The winners will be celebrated at a special banquet during the Global Polymer Summit in September, sponsored by Alpha Technologies. The Charles Goodyear Medal, the most prestigious of these awards, will go to Dr. Gregory McKenna. This award, sponsored by HF GROUP, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the rubber industry through invention, innovation, or development. Dr. McKenna's work has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the field. Dr. Will Mars will receive the Melvin Mooney Distinguished Technology Award, sponsored by Lion Elastomers. This award recognizes individuals who have made repeated and significant contributions to rubber science and technology. Dr. Mars' exceptional technical competency has earned him this well-deserved honor. The George Stafford Whitby Award for Distinguished Teaching and Research will be awarded to Dr. Rigoberto Advincula. Sponsored by Cabot Corporation, this award honors outstanding teachers and academic scientists in chemistry and polymer science. Dr. Advincula's innovative and inspirational teaching and research have made a significant impact on the field.Dr. Clément Robin will receive the Sparks-Thomas Award, sponsored by Endurica, LLC. This award recognizes outstanding scientific contributions and innovations in the field of elastomers by younger scientists, technologists, and engineers. Dr. Robin's work has shown great promise and potential. Dr. Timothy Lodge will be awarded the Chemistry of Thermoplastic Elastomers Award, sponsored by Renkert Oil, LLC. This award recognizes scientists who have made significant contributions to the field of thermoplastic elastomers, with a particular emphasis on innovations that have led to new commercial or patentable materials. Finally, Dr. Gerard Nijman will receive the Fernley H. Banbury Award, sponsored by HF GROUP. This award honors innovations in production equipment, instrumentation, control systems, or improved processing technologies widely used in the manufacture of rubber or rubber-like articles. Dr. Nijman's work has undoubtedly advanced the field in significant ways. These awards not only honor the achievements of these individuals but also inspire future generations of scientists and technologists to continue pushing the boundaries of rubber science and technology.