Furman University Professor Receives Governor’s Award for Excellence in Scientific Research

Greenville, SC – June 13, 2024

Furman University’s Greg Springsteen, professor of chemistry, was honored with the prestigious 2024 South Carolina Governor’s Award for Excellence in Scientific Research at a Predominantly Undergraduate Institution. The award was presented to him by Governor Henry McMaster at a ceremony held on June 11 at the Statehouse in Columbia, South Carolina.

Springsteen, who has been at Furman for 18 years, has dedicated his research to unraveling the mysteries of how life originated from a blend of organic molecules in a lifeless environment. His work has involved mentoring around 50 undergraduate students, guiding them in exploring the fundamental chemical conundrums that underpin the emergence of life on Earth.

Groundbreaking Research

Springsteen’s research delves into the core components of modern metabolism and how they may have existed on early Earth before being integrated into living systems. Through his investigations, he and his students have made significant contributions to the field, resulting in presentations, awards, and publications in renowned scientific journals such as Nature Communications, Nature Chemistry, and Angewandte Chemie.

His laboratory at Furman has received funding from prestigious sources like the NASA Exobiology program, the National Science Foundation, and the Henry Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Award, enabling them to pursue long-term research projects that address complex scientific questions.

Excellence in Academia and Entrepreneurship

One of the highlights of Springsteen’s career is the establishment of Aconabolics, LLC, a startup founded on campus with a former student. The company focuses on producing biological intermediates that have commercial applications, including diagnostic uses such as identifying cancer cells. Their innovative approach led to the granting of a U.S. patent for their intellectual property in 2022.

Through Aconabolics, Springsteen and his students have not only advanced scientific knowledge but also gained valuable insights into entrepreneurship, with the venture becoming an integral part of Furman’s engagement with the Upstate’s entrepreneurial community.

Recognition and Legacy

Springsteen’s dedication to training and mentoring undergraduate students has been widely recognized, with the Governor’s Award serving as a testament to his commitment to academic, societal, and commercial pursuits. He expressed gratitude to Furman University for providing an environment where novel ideas can thrive and students can excel.

The Governor’s Award for Excellence in Scientific Research at a Predominantly Undergraduate Institution is co-sponsored by the Governor’s Office and the South Carolina Academy of Sciences. Springsteen joins a select group of honorees from Furman, including esteemed faculty members like Gil Einstein, Tim Hanks, and John Wheeler.

Springsteen’s work exemplifies the spirit of inquiry and innovation that defines Furman University, further reinforcing the institution’s reputation for excellence in scientific research and education.