South Dakota Biotech recently recognized Steve Lewis, Senior Research Adviser at POET, with its prestigious LIVE Award, honoring Leadership, Innovation, Vision, and Entrepreneurship. The award celebrates individuals and organizations that demonstrate exceptional dedication to advancing biotechnology and helping to heal, fuel, and feed the world.
Lewis, a longtime South Dakota Biotech board member and two-year past chair, has played an integral role in strengthening South Dakota’s reputation as a leader in biotechnology and renewable innovation.
“Steve Lewis exemplifies the qualities of innovation, vision, and impact that this award celebrates,” said Joni Ekstrum, Executive Director of South Dakota Biotech. “As a driving force at POET, Steve has advanced biotechnology solutions that transform agriculture and energy. His leadership is marked by humble brilliance and collaboration, fostering teams that deliver groundbreaking advancements in renewable biofuels and bioproducts.”
Over more than two and a half decades with POET, Lewis has led research initiatives that have driven efficiency, innovation, and new opportunities across the biofuels industry. His work has contributed to POET’s mission to create a world in sync with nature, using the power of agriculture and science to produce homegrown energy and bioproducts.
Beyond his technical expertise, Lewis is recognized as a mentor and leader who inspires creativity and curiosity in those around him. His commitment to innovation and collaboration reflects the very spirit of the LIVE Award.
South Dakota Biotech established the LIVE Award in 2014 to honor individuals making a lasting impact on the bioscience community. Lewis’s recognition underscores his significant contributions to both POET and the state’s growing biotech industry, advancing sustainable solutions that support farmers, rural communities, and a bright future.
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