New Zealand scientist Maurice Wilkins - whose work was crucial in unravelling the double-helix structure of DNA - was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1962.
Wilkins, from Pongaroa in Wairarapa, shared the prize with James Watson of the United States and Frances Crick of Britain for their discoveries made in 1953.
It is impossible to overestimate the significance of their work for its contribution agriculture and animal husbandry as well as to the fight against disease and against crime.
Looking back on Wilkins' career, the Herald said his work had revolutionised biology and medicine, with its "building blocks"of DNA containing material that is unique to an individual but is also inherited.
DNA technology is now also commonly used in criminal investigations and has proved spectacularly successful in solving cold cases as well as new crimes.
