GUILLERMO SOBERÓN

He received his bachelor's degree from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) in 1949, and his doctor's degree in physiological chemistry) from the University of Wisconsin in 1956. He has occupied the highest positions at the UNAM: He was the Director of the Institute of Biomedical Research, coordinator of Scientific Research, and Rector for two terms. In the 1982-1988 presidential term, he was the Secretary of Health. His scientific work has been recognized with the following awards: the 1965 Science Award granted by the Academy of Scientific Research; the 1968 Elías Sourasky Sience Award; the 1974 Luis Elizondo Award; and the 1980 National Science Award. Dr. Guillermo Soberón has published over 115 papers, 11 books, and over 250 lectures in congresses and conferences in Mexico and abroad.

He is a founding member of the Mexican Society of Biochemistry; a member of the Mexican Society of Physiological Sciences; of the Association of Physicians of the Salvador Zubirán National Institute of Nutrition; of the Academy of Scientific Research; and of El Colegio Nacional since November 5, 1981.

He is a member of The Biochemical Society, England; of the American Society of Biological Chemists, U.S.A.; of the New York Academy of Sciences, U.S.A.; and of the American Chemical Society, U.S.A. Some of his latest works are: Temas de Salud (Health Topics); Salud para todos ¿Utopía o realidad? (Health for Everyone, Utopia or Reality?; Vericuetos de la investigación y desarrollo de vacunas (The Twisted Paths of Vaccine Research and Development) (a co-edition of El Colegio Nacional and Fondo de Cultura Económica). At present, he is the executive chairman of the Mexican Health Foundation.