NewsMakers

Kirschner wins Gairdner International Award

The Gairdner Foundation of Toronto has named Marc Kirschner, the Carl W. Walter Professor of Cell Biology, as one of the four recipients of the 2001 Gairdner International Awards. Kirschner, who is head of the department of cell biology at Harvard Medical School, is being honored for his pioneering work in the understanding of the structure, function, and dynamics of microtubules.

The award, which carries a $30,000 cash prize, recognizes contributions by medical scientists whose work will improve the quality of life.

Branscomb to receive Vannevar Bush award

Lewis M. Branscomb, Aetna Professor of Public Policy and Corporate Management Emeritus, will receive the National Science Board’s Vannevar Bush award on May 23. The award, the board’s highest for contributions in public service, is presented to individuals whose public service activities in science and technology have made outstanding contributions toward humanity and the nation.

Kheirandish and Cavicchi receive 2001-02 Dibner Institute Fellowships

The Dibner Institute for the History of Science and Technology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.) has awarded fellowships to Elaheh Kheirandish, a research associate at the Center for Middle Eastern Studies, and Elizabeth Cavicchi, who received her Ed.D. from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where she is a lecturer.

Kheirandish, one of 16 senior fellows, will continue her work, “The Optical Traditions of Ancient Alexandria and Their Transmission within Near Eastern and European Lands: 300 B.C. – 1300 A.D.,” at the Dibner Institute.

Cavicchi, one of nine postdoctoral fellows at the Dibner Institute, plans to study the experimental practices and knowledge resulting from the experiments of Jonathan Hearder and other amateurs in making and using induction coils.

Juma to accept Henry Shaw Medal

Senior Research Associate Calestous Juma will be awarded the Henry Shaw Medal on May 10. The Henry Shaw Medal, which is the Missouri Botanical Garden’s highest award, honors those who have made a significant contribution to botanical research, horticulture, conservation, or the museum community.

– Compiled by Andrew Brooks