Prof G Padmanabhan of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, has been conferred with the first 'Distinguished Biotechnology Award'. He has been selected for his pioneering work in understanding the regulation of gene expression, malaria parasite biology and identification of new drug targets.

Instituted by the Department of Biotechnology, the award is given for utilising the expertise of active superannuated scientists who have made outstanding contribution to biotechnology.

The award carries a maximum amount of Rs 26,000 per month as honorarium and a contingency grant of Rs 50,000 per annum. The tenure of the awardee would be initially for a three-year period but extendable up to two years based on the review of the work undertaken by him.