2000 Bower Science Award Theme: Structural Biology
A renowned researcher in the field of structural molecular biology, Alexander Rich's work furthered understanding of the roles of DNA abd RNA in heredity. In 1979, Rich and his team made a shocking discovery: "left-handed" DNA. This screw-shape form was dubbed Z-DNA, and Rich later discovered a biological role in making modifications to genetic material.
This and other groundbreaking work in structural biology earned Rich international honors. Rich is a member of the National Academy of Sciences, the Philosophical Society, the French Academy of Sciences, the Russian Academy of Sciences, and the Pontifical Academy of Sciences. Rich has received the Rosenteil Award in Basic Biomedical Research, the Presidential Award of the New York Academy of Sciences, and the National Medal of Science.
Information as of 2000