Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology

Named in honor of Carl R. Woese, who discovered Archaea, the third domain of life, the Carl R. Woese Prize in Evolution recognizes research that fundamentally transforms our understanding of life on Earth in areas such as biodiversity and connections among Earth systems, comparative cell biology, bioengineering, astrobiology, origins and evolution of life, and human and global health. Nominations are now open, submissions due by November 15, 2026.

"Microbial ecosystems are the foundation of Earth's biosphere. Yet, before Woese's sequence-based phylogenetic framework developed, there was no meaningful way to survey the microbes that make up the natural microbial world ... Microbial ecology was boosted from a moribund state to one of the most vibrant fields of biology."

N. Goldenfeld, N. R. Pace, Carl R. Woese (1928–2012), Science 339, 661-661(2013)

Honor Woese's Legacy
As the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the Archaea approaches, the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign will award the Carl R. Woese Prize in Evolution to commemorate one of the most profound scientific achievements in modern history. This honor will recognize the enduring legacy of Carl Woese whose seminal discoveries transformed our understanding of life's evolution on Earth.

Advance Ongoing Discovery in the Field
Woese's discovery remains one of the 20th century’s landmark achievements in biology, and a cornerstone for the growing understanding of life's evolution. The Woese Prize will celebrate lifelong achievement of a scientist whose work continues to expand the frontiers of evolutionary science. A living scientist will be internationally recognized for discoveries that advance our understanding of evolution and its underlying mechanisms. Areas of inquiry may include: Origin of Life, Biology and Evolution of Archaea, Horizontal Gene Transfer, RNA Biology & Evolution or related fields.
 

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