USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation are accepting nominations through July 1 for the Dr. Charles Beard Research Excellence Award, which recognizes outstanding completed research projects funded by USPOULTRY or the USPOULTRY Foundation that have had a transformative impact on the poultry industry.

Established in 2013, the award honors primary researchers whose work has advanced industry knowledge and practices. Nominees may be recognized for multiple completed USPOULTRY-funded projects, provided they are focused on the same subject area.

Nominations are open to universities, research institutions and individuals within the poultry research community, including USPOULTRY members, staff and sponsored committee members. Self-nominations are also accepted. While nominations should primarily highlight projects completed within the past five years, older projects may be considered if their significant impact has only recently become evident.

To submit a nomination, send a letter to Dr. Denise Heard, vice president of research, USPOULTRY. The letter should include the nominee’s name, a brief description of the research accomplishments and a summary of the project’s impact on the industry. Additional information about the award is available on the USPOULTRY website.

The award recipient will receive round-trip transportation and two nights’ lodging to attend the 2027 International Production & Processing Expo in Atlanta, Ga., along with a $1,500 cash prize. The award will be presented during the USPOULTRY Chair’s Reception, and the honoree will be recognized at the International Poultry Scientific Forum.

USPOULTRY’s research program supports all segments of broiler, turkey and commercial egg production. To date, more than $38 million, or approximately $67 million in inflation-adjusted terms, has been invested to enhance the quality, safety and continuous improvement of poultry products through comprehensive research.