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Robert G. Edwards, CBE, DSc (Hon), FRCOG, FRS

JAMA. 2005;294:1422-1423.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

The Lasker Foundation has set the highest standards in acknowledging scientific worth since the mid-20th century, encouraging scientific excellence and recognizing the forefront of modern research. However, diverse factors lead to research excellence. Some investigators apparently simply see through complex problems before beginning their research. Others move from one discovery to the next, steadily enlarging their original theme. It is fascinating to watch the inspiration of the former and the dogged determination of the latter. There is also, of course, that mysterious matter of being lucky.

My original interest in science was triggered by 4 scientific giants, Darwin, Mendeleef, Rutherford, and the "weather man," who turned out to be Luke Howard, as I discovered much later. Each of them were clearly inspired by their work, like many other scientists. I am certain that sheer doggedness must have kept them going through the . . . [Full Text of this Article]

Author Affiliation: Dr Edwards is Professor Emeritus in Human Reproduction, Cambridge University, and Chief Editor, Reproduction BioMedicine Online, Cambridge, England.