Franklin Institute medals honor scientists
By: Shyunti Das
Issue date: 4/22/05 Section: Sci-Tech
Originally published: 4/22/05 at 1:51 AM EST
Last update: 4/22/05 at 1:59 AM EST
Originally published: 4/22/05 at 1:51 AM EST
Last update: 4/22/05 at 1:59 AM EST
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The Franklin Institute has issued these awards in the areas of science, engineering and technology for 180 years, as decided upon by the Committee on Science and the Arts. It was first initiated in 1824 at the annual American Manufacturer's Exhibition, and has awarded many influential and well-known figures, many of whom have even gone on to win Nobel Prizes.
These awards are given to, as stated on the Franklin Institute Web site, "... individuals whose great innovation has benefited humanity, advanced science, launched new fields of inquiry, and deepened our understanding of the universe." The subject of the individual's must "[reflect] uncommon insight, skill, or creativity" and "have significant scientific value and/or proven utility ... or provided great benefit to the public."
The recipients participate in a weeklong series of events, including seminars given at various Philadelphia universities, events at the Franklin Institute itself and sightseeing opportunities in the city. Among the events was a luncheon held at the University, sponsored by the Pennoni Honors College, April 20. Students were invited at attend and speak with these individuals. Dean of the Pennoni Honors College Mark Greenberg welcomed the laureates by stating his hope that their great minds would provide instruction for "... those who aspire to be great."
Also among the events was a Life Science Symposium, featuring Elizabeth Blackburn as the keynote speaker, held in Mandell Theater April 21. Blackburn's discoveries concerned telomeres, a structure associated with chromosomes, and telomerase, an enzyme involved in cell replication. These discoveries have far-reaching implications for aging and cancer research.
Nominations for 2006 can be submitted using the forms available at http://www.fi.edu/tfi/exhibits/bower/05/06nominate.html.
