James Thomson

Biologist based at the University of Wisconsin who found the key to future transplant technology by isolating embryonic stem cells and keeping a culture of them alive in a laboratory for a year. Thomson's work, if combined with cloning techniques, raises the prospect of organ banks. Because embryonic stem cells are capable of developing into any of the specialised cells that make up the human body, a person could have a lifetime's supply of spare parts to draw on in case of a medical emergency - for example, pancreatic cells for treating diabetes or neurons for Parkinson's disease.

Ray Crane

British engineer whose insights into aerodynamics have been central to the design of the world's tallest buildings. Crane has solved some fundamental problems in cutting the vibration that such high structures can suffer in strong winds, and expects to be involved in the process of constructing even taller skyscrapers in the future.

X. Fill in the gaps with a suitable preposition.

1. The scientist is working … the creation of a permanent implant. 2. This invention will end the need … telephone dialling. 3. This “smart tool” is capable … performing operations better than a human physician. 4. He specialises … eye surgery. 5. We flew home … Dublin.