Lourdes J. Cruz is a biochemist whose research has contributed to the understanding of the biochemistry of toxic peptides from the venom of fish-hunting Conus marine snails. The characterization of over 50 biologically active peptides from the snail’s venom had been made possible, in part, by her studies. She also contributed to the development of conotoxins as tools for examining the activity of the human brain. For instance, w-conotoxin is widely used for studying neutral calcium channels and m-conotoxin is used when muscular activity must be controlled to examine events at the synapse.1

Dr. Cruz has conceptualized and established the Rural Livelihood Incubator (Rural LINC) in 2001 with the help of volunteers and seed fund from private donor. One of the aims of Rural LINC is to generate employment opportunities and establish sustainable means of livelihood as long-term solutions to poverty and socio-political instability in rural areas.

Dr. Cruz has produced over 120 scientific publications.  In 1981, she was one of recipients of Outstanding Young Scientist award from NAST, and elected to the Academy in 1986.  She is the first OYS awardee to become a National Scientist.2