Two scientists from the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) were conferred Career Scientist I under the Scientific Career System by the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST).
The two PCC scientists were Dr. Danilda H. Duran and Dr. Peregrino G. Duran, both agricultural scientists. They are husband and wife.
They had their oath-taking ceremony on July 19 at the Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, Eastwood City, Bagumbayan, Quezon City along with 18 other scientists from other agencies. Civil Service Commissioner Francisco T. Duque III administered their oath.
Since 1994, Dr. D. Duran has been engaged in the livestock biotechnology research and development program of PCC working under the Reproductive Biotechnology Unit.
In 2002, along with fellow PCC scientists, Dr. D. Duran�s research on In Vitro Fertilization led to the birth of �Glory,� the first embryo-transfer calf produced from IVF-derived and cryopreserved embryo from India. She has continually conducted studies along this field of discipline which made her eligible to the rank.
Meanwhile, Dr. P. Duran first joined the Philippine Carabao Research and Development Center (PCRDC) in 1982 and later the PCC. He has engaged himself in the breeding of buffaloes and is currently the team leader of the PCC�s Dairy Herd Improvement and Enterprise Development Program.
The NAST is a premier recognition and advisory body which recognizes outstanding achievements in science and technology. Its members are grouped into several divisions which include agricultural sciences; biological sciences; chemical, mathematical, and physical sciences; engineering sciences and technology; health sciences; and social sciences.
Scientist I is given to public service personnel directly engaged in research and development activities who have garnered at least 50 points in scientific productivity as determined by the Scientific Career Council.
Scientist I holder can later on be promoted to other scientists� level up to rank five.
