The National Peanut Board (NPB) is accepting applications for the eleventh annual Dr. George Washington Carver Award. The award is open to undergraduate and graduate students and the winner receives a $1,000 prize, with a matching amount awarded to the winner’s college or university for peanut research.

Past award recipients have attended University of Georgia, Auburn University, Texas Tech, Oklahoma State University, North Carolina State University and University of Wisconsin.

Representing American peanut producers, NPB rewards a future peanut researcher’s hard work and community spirit with this award commemorating America’s foremost peanut researcher. The standards for judging exemplify the spirit of Dr. George Washington Carver -- a positive, measurable impact on peanut cultivation or peanut product development and strength of character as reflected by community involvement or service.

The renowned scientist overcame incredible odds to become the “father of the peanut industry.” Carver’s discoveries spurred many uses of the peanut, increasing the legume’s popularity and making peanuts a staple in the American diet.

Application forms are available online here.

Once completed, entries should be mailed to the National Peanut Board Dr. Carver Award, 2839 Paces Ferry Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30339. The deadline for applications is June 8, 2012.

“Production research is vital to peanut farmers,” said NPB research committee chairman and Florida board member Michael Davis. “The National Peanut Board offers this award to encourage young researchers to continue innovating toward efficiency and sustainability while also giving back to their communities.”

This year’s winner will be presented with a check for $1,000 and a plaque at the 2012 American Peanut Research and Education Society’s (APRES) Annual Conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, July 10 through 12.