A new state prize in science is named for a Purdue researcher.

Governor Mitch Daniels says the new Nelson Innovation Prize is named for Purdue scientist Philip Nelson, who developed new ways to process, transport and store large amounts of fruits and vegetables. Nelson won the 2007 World Food Prize, a $250,000 award that recognizes people who help improve the availability and quality of food throughout the world.

Daniels says the $5,000 state prize will go to Hoosier scientists whose work improves quality of life, leads to industrial breakthroughs or spurs more scientific inquiry. The award will be funded by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.