Seville, May 29, 2014. The founder of the Institute of Plant Biochemistry and Photosynthesis, and recipient of the King Jaime I Prize for Research and the Prince of Asturias Prize for Scientific and Technical Research, Manuel Losada Villasante, was awarded yesterday for what is considered an “exceptional professional and human career in the work of raising awareness, research, conservation and protection of the environment.” These merits have earned him the I Francisco de Asís Environmental Prize, awarded by the Academy of Social Sciences and the Environment of Seville.

The laudatio was made by José Manuel Roldán Nogueras, president of the Confederation of Rectors of Andalusia and rector of the University of Córdoba. And the presentation was presided over by the Minister of the Environment, María Jesús Serrano, the president of the aforementioned academy, Antonio Pascual, and Damien Marantelli, president of the Cobre Las Cruces Foundation.

On May 23, the prestigious biochemist also received the Gold Medal of the Province of Seville “for his extensive and brilliant work and because he has been a clear example of excellence for young researchers in the province.” The award ceremony took place at the institutional headquarters of the Provincial Council of Seville, and was headed by the President of the Provincial Council, Fernando Rodríguez Villalobos, and the President of the Andalusian Government, Susana Díaz.