We’re thrilled to announce the Winners of the inaugural Labs4Climate competition—an international call for breakthrough academic innovations that can reshape our global path to net zero.
Launched by NetZero Tech Ventures in collaboration with Chevron Technology Ventures (CTV), the Labs4Climate initiative attracted nearly 40 outstanding applications from world-class researchers across the globe. After a highly competitive review process, our jury selected the winners:
🏆 The Winners:
- Prof. Yossi Paltiel, The Hebrew University
High Efficiency PV Using Quantum Dots Embedded in Multi-Cellulose Layers
A next-generation photovoltaic innovation pushing the limits of solar cell performance. - Erez Ruck, PhD Candidate, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology (Prof. Youri Gendel)
From Scrap to Value: Catalytic Metal Recovery for a Zero-Waste Future
Transforming industrial waste into valuable resources through innovative catalytic recovery.
Runner-ups:
Prof. Dr. Ernesto J. Calvo, University of Buenos Aires
LitiAR: Sustainable electrochemical direct lithium extraction (e-DLE)
An innovative process to extract lithium efficiently and sustainably—a critical enabler for energy storage technologies.
Prof. Wei Liao, Michigan State University
High-Efficiency Carbon Conversion in Anaerobic Digestion
A hybrid system to boost renewable natural gas production and reduce emissions from organic waste.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to @Science Abroad and @Ignite Academia for helping us reach exceptional researchers worldwide, and to our Screening Committee—a global group of visionary investors and industry experts—for their thoughtful evaluations and insights:
Abhishek Ramanan, Andrea Siciliani, Ron Gonen, Joshua Posamentier, James Lyons, Gilles Cochevelou, Brian Steinberger, Asi Shalgi, Roee Furman, and Madelyn Evans—thank you!
A very special thanks to the outstanding team at Chevron Technology Ventures—Lynn Rouse and Sindhu Balan—for their dedication in bringing this initiative to life. Together, we’re bridging the gap between lab research and commercial impact by empowering academic innovators to take their solutions to the next level.
