Driven by a rigorous, scientific approach and a vision to transfer basic science into tangible engineering products, Dr. Gino Palumbo has nurtured the first Canadian company to become a world leader in the design and application of nanomaterials. His over-arching philosophy has been the improvement in properties of novel materials through controlled nanostructures and grain-boundary engineering. His pioneering accomplishments have been of great value to Canada and to society in general. Dr. Palumbo has provided commendable service within professional organizations and academia. His numerous awards confirm the superb level of excellence that he has consistently achieved throughout his distinguished career.