An eminent Mexican biologist, whose research helped to spur the creation of the first genetically modified plants, and an internationally renowned Indian chemist, whose innovative laboratory techniques have led to the synthesis of more than 50 natural products, have been awarded the Trieste Science Prize for 2007.

The Trieste Science Prize, administered by TWAS and funded by illy caff, provides international recognition to outstanding scientists living and working in the developing world. Winners share a US$100,000 cash award. Luis Rafael Herrera-Estrella, Director of the National Laboratory for Genomics of Biodiversity and professor of plant genetic engineering at the Centre of Research and Advanced Studies in Irapuato, Mexico, helped to pioneer the field of plant molecular biology and genetic engineering. Plant transformation techniques developed by Herrera-Estrella and his colleagues have had a significant impact on the commercial production of genetically modified transgenic) plants currently grown on more than 100 million hectares worldwide.

Goverdhan Mehta, CSIR Bhatnagar fellow and honorary professor at the Department of Organic Chemistry at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, and distinguished research professor at the University of Hyderabad in India, is a world-renowned chemist who has made breakthrough contributions in a variety of fields related to organic synthesis.

His wide-ranging interests include the synthesis of biologically significant and architecturally challenging natural products; the design of novel molecules; the study of stereoelectronic effects; and super molecular chemistry. His synthesis techniques have been widely praised for their elegance and originality. "Trieste Science Prize winners," says Jacob Palis, president of TWAS, "put a spotlight on the enormous impact that scientists from the developing world are making to international science. Their efforts are not only helping their nations to advance but are also making our global community a better place."

"illycaff," says Andrea Illy, the company's president and chief executive officer, "is pleased to honour scientists who are making significant contributions to society. The Trieste Science Prize symbolizes excellence. The success of the recipients has enriched both their societies and ours."

Trieste Science Prize
The Trieste Science Prize, now in its third year, is designed to bring recognition and distinction to the developing world's most eminent scientists who have not yet been honored by other international award schemes dedicated to honoring scientific achievement. It is named after Trieste, a city in northeast Italy that has made fundamental contributions to the promotion of science in the developing world. The prize has received the high patronage of the President of Italy. It is given annually and rotates among the following fields: biological sciences and physics/astrophysics (2005); mathematics and medical sciences (2006); agricultural sciences and chemical sciences (2007); and earth and engineering sciences (2008).

For more information, visit: http://www.twas.org