Beatrice Mintz, a senior member of the Institute for Cancer Research at the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, was presented with the John Scott Award during a reception on November 18 at the American Philosophical Society in Philadelphia.
The prize was set up in the early 1800s by John Scott, a Scottish druggist, who entrusted the administration of the award--originally $20 and an inscribed copper medal--to the city of Philadelphia. Scott's intention was to reward people for their useful inventions that contributed in a significant way to the "comfort, welfare, and happiness" of mankind. Early awards went to inventors of such items as a knitting machine and door lock. Notable winners through this century have included Thomas Edison, Jonas Salk, the Wright brothers, and Kary Mullis.
"This award is a paeon in praise of crazy ideas," Mintz, who was honored for her novel and creative research in the fields ...
