Biotechnologists Inducted into ARS Hall of Fame

The US Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS) Science Hall of Fame program recognizes three noted scientists for their decades of discoveries in the field of biotechnology. This year's recipients are Drs. Dennis Gonzalves, Johnie N. Jenkins and Janet C. King, all previously employed in ARS. Dr. Gonsalves led a team that  developed papaya ringspot virus resistant papaya using the modern biotechnology tools. The technology and his leadership helped saved the Hawaii papaya industry. Dr. Jenkins was responsible for one of the first field testing of transgenic cotton resistant to tobacco budworms and cotton bollworms. Dr. Jenkins also has made important discoveries on the chemical interactions between cotton plants and pests in the USA, and  was instrumental in training graduate students in cotton research. Dr. King on the other hand, is an international leader in  nutrition policy committees, serving in many advisory boards, notably the one that developed the current Dietary Guidelines for Americans. 

The  ARS Science Hall of Fame program, established in 1986 recognizes agency researchers for outstanding career achievements in agricultural sciences. Candidates should be retired or eligible to retire during the time of award.

View press release at: http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/2007/070912.htm.