William Sharp is a biotechnologist and entrepreneur, who holds a PhD in plant cell biology from Rutgers University.
He is well known for his application of science into business, creating both start up companies and extensive technology transfer experience across the Americas and Asia in a broad sector of business ventures.
Sharp has authored over seventy original research papers, abstracts and books in the field of plant cell biology including co-editing Plant Cell and Tissue Culture, The Ohio State University Press, Columbus, Ohio 1977 the five volume series entitled the Handbook of Plant Cell Culture, Volumes 1–5, MACMILLIAM Publishing Company, New York 1983–1986)and Reflections & Connections and Personal Journeys Through The Life Sciences, Volumes I & II, ScienceTechPublishers, LLC, Lewes, Delaware 2014.
He received the distinctive honor of having the Rod Sharp Professor of Microbiology, Ohio State University and the William "Rod" Sharp Biotechnology Conference Room, University of São Paulo named for him, recipient of the University of São Paulo Eminent Professorship and the Luiz Queiroz Distinguished Service Medal award from the University of São Paulo.
Sharp was awarded The Board of Trustees Distinguished Service Award in recognition for his contributions to the Colleges of Arts and Sciences from The Ohio State University by President Gordon Gee at graduation commencement on December 9, 2007, and more recently the College of Arts and Sciences 2016 Alumni Distinguished service Award.