AGBT today announced the recipients of the 2026 Next Gen Leadership Awards for the AGBT General Meeting. These awards recognize outstanding early-career researchers and graduate students whose work and potential are advancing innovation across genomics and related disciplines.

Through the Next Gen Leadership Awards, recipients receive financial support to attend and present their research at the AGBT General Meeting, fostering scientific exchange, professional growth and connections within the global genomics community.

The program prioritizes applicants affiliated with institutions historically underrepresented at AGBT, reinforcing its commitment to expanding access and opportunity in genomics.

The 2026 award recipients are:

• Alexandria Awai, Morehouse School of Medicine
• Kingsley E. Bentum, Tuskegee University
• Asmaa Elrefaey, Tuskegee University
• Azadeh Golduzian, The University of New Mexico
• Faith Wadzanai Kadzviti, Tuskegee University
• Trevor Mugoya, San Diego State University Research Foundation
• Zulma Lisseth Reyes-Benitez, Morehouse School of Medicine
• Li Tao, Wayne State University School of Medicine
• Kimberley Billingsley, National Institutes of Health

The awardees’ research spans cancer genomics, infectious disease, population genetics, neuroscience, agriculture and environmental health. Their work addresses critical challenges in human health, disease and biological diversity, reinforcing AGBT’s mission to advance research, promote education, and expand commerce in genome science and technology.

“It is an honor to recognize these exceptional early-career scientists whose innovation and commitment reflect the future of genomics,” said Len Pennacchio, The Genome Partnership board member and chair of the Education Committee. “Their work is expanding the boundaries of discovery and strengthening scientific leadership across our field. I am proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to the impact they will have on the global scientific community.”

AGBT’s General Meeting brings together top researchers, industry leaders and investors to advance genome biology and technology. It is a forum where significant scientific discoveries and transformative technologies are introduced, and collaborations take shape. By honoring emerging scientists alongside established leaders, AGBT underscores the essential role of early-career leadership in shaping the future of genomics.

For presentation topics, photos and additional information about the Next Gen Leadership Awards and the AGBT General Meeting, visit www.agbt.org.

About AGBT

Advances in Genome Biology and Technology provides a forum for the global genomics community to exchange ideas and advance the field of genomics and its applications across disciplines.

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Expanding access and elevating emerging leaders is essential to shaping the future of genomics.