New state science prize named for Purdue researcher

Gov. Mitch Daniels announced Wednesday the creation of a new state prize for an Indiana scientist whose work goes beyond research.

The Nelson Innovation Prize is named for Philip E. Nelson, a Purdue University scientist who developed new ways to process, transport and store large amounts of fruits and vegetables while maintaining their nutritional value. Nelson won the 2007 World Food Prize, a $250,000 award that recognizes people who help improve the availability and quality of food throughout the world.

Daniels said the $5,000 state prize will go to Hoosier scientists whose work improves quality of life, leads to industrial breakthroughs or spurs more scientific inquiry.

"The great scientist or inventor does far more to improve people's lives than the politicians, business leaders or entertainers who dominate the headlines," Daniels said. "It's time we lifted up and honored those Hoosiers whose scientific achievements will make us the great state we intend to be."

The Indiana Economic Development Corp. Foundation will fund the $5,000 award, and a panel of researchers and entrepreneurs will establish selection criteria.

Nelson pioneered technologies that reduce post-harvest waste and spoilage, and that have allowed the vegetable and fruit packing industry to move from a system of packaging fresh items once a year to manufacturing products year-round.

The developments have been used to help deliver food aid and water during events such as the 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia and Hurricane Katrina in 2005.