Christopher Batich, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Materials Science & Engineering at the University of Florida, is among the newest inductees into the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame. Dr. Batich was selected for creating a groundbreaking anti-bacterial surface treatment material, commercialized as Bioguard. The material is now being used as an advanced wound dressing and bacterial barrier in burn units and nursing homes throughout the United States. He also holds 55 U.S. patents.

“Dr. Batich’s contributions to science and commercialized technology has seen worldwide integration into hospitals and care units,” said Michele Manuel, Ph.D., department chair. “This award truly recognizes the importance of his years of research and its significant impact on society. Dr. Batich, as an active creator of inventions, represents and embodies all of the wonderful attributes of this award. We couldn’t be more delighted of his most-deserving induction into the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame.”

The awardees, who must have at least one U.S. patent and a connection to Florida, were nominated through an open nomination process and elected by a selection committee composed of distinguished leaders in research and innovation throughout Florida.

“I felt honored to receive this recognition, especially given all the new technology being created in Florida each year,” Dr. Batich said. “I also felt great appreciation for the many others who helped move this along. It was a clear reminder to me of how effective a broad-based group can be in taking a suggestion and bringing it all the way to commercialization.”

The Florida Inventors Hall of Fame was recognized by the Florida Senate in 2014 with a resolution sponsored by Senator Jeff Brandes that commended the Hall of Fame, “for its commitment to honoring inventors and celebrating innovation, discovery, and excellence.” The Hall of Fame is located at the University of South Florida in Tampa and supported, in part, by the Florida High Tech Corridor Council.

The honorees are scheduled to be inducted at the 7th Annual Florida Inventors Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony & Gala on September 11, 2020.

Go to Florida Inventors Hall of Fame to learn more.