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Mary-Dell Chilton Dies at 87; Helped Create First Genetically Modified Plant
The New York Times • • science
Key Points:
- Mary-Dell Chilton, initially interested in physics and astronomy, switched to chemistry after facing discouragement and delays in pursuing her original interests at the University of Illinois in the 1950s.
- She became a pioneering figure in agricultural biotechnology, leading the team that created the first genetically modified plant in 1982, revolutionizing global agriculture with crops that resist insects, disease, and extreme weather.
- Dr. Chilton’s work enabled the insertion of foreign genes into plants, resulting in higher-yielding and more resilient crops, significantly impacting food production worldwide.
- She passed away on June 24 at age 87 from congestive heart failure, leaving a legacy of scientific innovation aimed at helping humanity feed itself.
- Colleagues and family remember her as driven by a commitment to applying the best science to solve global food challenges.
