Editing Science and technology in Jamaica

[[File:Coat of arms of Jamaica.svg|thumb|Jamaica Coat of Arms]]
'''The Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) sector in [[Jamaica]]''' is guided by two primary institutions, the National Commission on Science and Technology (NCST) and the Scientific Research Council (SRC). Both are under the direction of the Ministry of Science, Energy, and Technology.

== History ==
[[File:Sir Anthony Musgrave, 1888.png|thumb|175x175px|[[Anthony Musgrave|Sir Anthony Musgrave]], founder of the Institute of Jamaica]]
[[STEM fields|Science and technology]] in [[Jamaica]] has a long history. In 1879, the [[List of governors of Jamaica|Governor of Jamaica]] created the [[Institute of Jamaica]] "For the Encouragement of Literature, Science and Art in Jamaica".<ref>{{cite web|date=2021|title=About Us – Institute of Jamaica|url=https://instituteofjamaica.org.jm/?page_id=1013|access-date=9 September 2021|language=en-US}}</ref> Jamaica was among the earliest developing countries to craft a scientific law to guide the use of science and technology for the exploitation of domestic natural resources. It was one of the first countries in the western hemisphere to gain electricity, build a railway and to use research results to boost sugar cane production.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Science and Technology System in Jamaica|url=https://www.scribd.com/document/338608230/Science-and-Technology-System-in-Jamaica-UNESCO|access-date=Oct 3, 2012|publisher=UNESCO Organization}}</ref> In 1960, the Scientific Research Council (SRC) was established, with a mandate to "collect, collate and review information concerning scientific research schemes or programmes relevant to the development of the resources of Jamaica (and) to establish and maintain a scientific information centre for collection and dissemination of scientific and technical information".<ref name=":0">{{cite web|date=2018|title=Making Science, Technology & Innovation Work for You|url=https://src.gov.jm/about-us/#tab2|access-date=9 September 2021|website=src.gov.jm}}</ref>

== Science and technology policy ==
Since the 1990s, the [[Jamaica]]n government has set an agenda to push the development of [[STEM fields|science and technology]] in Jamaica. Acknowledging the pivotal role of ST&I in national development,  the Government of Jamaica formulated a national science and technology policy. The Jamaican Science and Technology Policy (1990) has two missions: 1) to improve science, technology and engineering and 2) to leverage its use to enhance societal needs. The overall goal is to make Jamaica a significant player in the arena of [[information technology]].<ref>{{cite web|date=1990|title=Government of Jamaica Science and Technology Policy|url=https://www.mset.gov.jm/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/National-Science-Technology-Policy-1990.pdf|access-date=3 September 2021}}</ref>

In 2009, Jamaica launched Vision 2030, a national development plan that aims to put Jamaica in a position to achieve [[developed country]] status by 2030. National Outcome 11 is a "Technology-Enabled Society", to create a more prosperous economy.

Efforts to develop its Science and Technology educative system, through institutions such as [[The University of Technology]], has been successful but it has been difficult to translate the results into domestic technologies, products and services because of national budgetary constraints. Expenditure on [[research and development]] (R&D) amounted to just 0.06 per cent of [[Gross domestic product|GDP]] in 2002. For comparison, the world average was 2.044 per cent.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|title=Research and development expenditure (% of GDP) - Jamaica, World {{!}} Data|url=https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/GB.XPD.RSDV.GD.ZS?locations=JM-1W&most_recent_year_desc=false|access-date=18 February 2022|website=data.worldbank.org}}</ref> In 2018, Jamaica spent just 0.7 per cent.<ref>{{cite web|date=18 February 2020|title=Growth & Jobs {{!}} Jamaica must invest more in science and research|url=https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20200218/growth-jobs-jamaica-must-invest-more-science-and-research|access-date=29 September 2021|website=jamaica-gleaner.com|language=en}}</ref> For comparison, the world average was over 2.2 per cent.<ref name=":4" /> However, recent improvements in the country's fiscal position, has enabled the government to introduce various policies to boost research expenditure and to encourage innovation.<ref>{{cite web|date=May 2019|title=IMF Lending Case Study: Jamaica|url=https://www.imf.org/en/Countries/JAM/jamaica-lending-case-study|access-date=29 September 2021|website=IMF|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Van Trotsenburg|first=Axel|date=16 May 2019|title=Jamaica has made an "extraordinary" economic turnaround|url=https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/opinion/2019/05/16/jamaica-has-made-an-extraordinary-economic-turnaround|access-date=29 September 2021|website=World Bank|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=12 March 2021|title=Joel Allen {{!}} Enabling innovation critical for Jamaica's socio-economic development|url=https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/commentary/20210312/joel-allen-enabling-innovation-critical-jamaicas-socio-economic|access-date=9 October 2021|website=jamaica-gleaner.com|language=en}}</ref> In 2019, the Jamaican government indicated that it would provide funding for research and development as of financial year 2019–20, and that effective from September 2020, it will take research and development spending into account in the calculation of the country's gross domestic product. Concerning counting R&D as a share of GDP, Finance Minister Dr Nigel Clarke said the move will stimulate greater investment in the sector, which will, in turn, drive innovation.<ref>{{cite web |date=8 February 2019 |title=Government's focus on R&D a game-changer |url=https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/editorial/government-s-focus-on-r-d-a-game-changer_156577#disqus_thread |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190211080638/https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/editorial/government-s-focus-on-r-d-a-game-changer_156577 |archive-date=11 February 2019 |access-date=4 September 2021 |website=Jamaica Observer}}</ref>

According to the International Property Rights Index, Jamaica has one of the stronger intellectual property (IP) protection regimes in [[Latin America]] and the [[Caribbean]] (ranked 4th in 2020).<ref>{{cite web|date=2020|title=Jamaica|url=http://www.internationalpropertyrightsindex.org/country/jamaica|access-date=13 September 2021|website=www.internationalpropertyrightsindex.org|language=en}}</ref> In January 2020, the Jamaican Parliament passed the Patents and Designs Act (the "New Act"). The New Act will enable local industrial designers to secure international protection for their work in multiple jurisdictions by means of a single application, filed in one language, with one set of fees.<ref>{{cite web|date=27 April 2021|title=New act to enable int'l protection for industrial designers|url=https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/New_act_to_enable_intl_protection_for_industrial_designers|access-date=13 September 2021|website=Jamaica Observer}}</ref> A more efficient and streamlined patents application process will hope to foster innovation and development. The Hon. [[Pearnel Patroe Charles Jr.|Pearnel Charles Jr]], who piloted the legislation, stated "It will allow us to raise our standards and to have international compliance in several aspects and safeguard the inventors in our country. Through this Bill, [inventors] will receive much more protection, and hence there will be greater promotion of creativity and efforts to find solutions to our challenges".<ref>{{cite web|date=24 January 2020|title=Senate Passes Modern Patents and Designs Bill – Jamaica Information Service|url=https://jis.gov.jm/senate-passes-modern-patents-and-designs-bill/|access-date=13 September 2021|website=jis.gov.jm}}</ref>

Jamaica has successfully operated a [[SLOWPOKE reactor|SLOWPOKE-2 nuclear reactor]] of 20&nbsp;kW capacity since the early 1980s. It's the Caribbean's only nuclear reactor. In late 2020, Jamaica launched its Hazardous Substances Regulatory Authority (HSRA), becoming the first country in the English-speaking Caribbean to establish an independent regulatory body to ensure safety and security in the operation of facilities involving [[ionizing radiation]] and [[nuclear technology]] in the country, including the 20&nbsp;kW SLOWPOKE research reactor.<ref>{{cite web|last=Borak|first=David|date=1 December 2020|title=Jamaica Launches Independent Nuclear Safety, Security and Safeguards Regulatory Body|url=https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/news/jamaica-launches-independent-nuclear-safety-security-and-safeguards-regulatory-body|access-date=20 September 2020|website=www.iaea.org|language=en}}</ref> Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, [[Audley Shaw]] stated that Jamaica could now "confidently forge ahead with engaging nuclear science and technology in all aspects of national development and wealth creation strategies".<ref>{{cite web |date=2 November 2020 |title=Shaw welcomes launch of Hazardous Regulatory Authority |url=https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Shaw_welcomes_launch_of_Hazardous_Regulatory_Authority?profile=&template=PrinterVersion |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210920212635/https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Shaw_welcomes_launch_of_Hazardous_Regulatory_Authority?profile=&template=PrinterVersion |archive-date=20 September 2021 |access-date=20 September 2021 |website=www.jamaicaobserver.com}}</ref>

Jamaica has a moderate ranking on the [[Global Innovation Index]]. It was ranked 79th in 2024. <ref>{{cite book|url=https://www.wipo.int/web-publications/global-innovation-index-2024/en/|title=Global Innovation Index 2024. Unlocking the Promise of Social Entrepreneurship|access-date=2024-10-22|author=[[World Intellectual Property Organization]]|year=2024|isbn=978-92-805-3681-2|doi= 10.34667/tind.50062|website=www.wipo.int|location=Geneva|page=18}}</ref> In 2021, it was ranked 9th among the 18 economies in Latin America and the Caribbean and 74th out of 132 countries overall.<ref>{{cite book|last=WIPO|date=2021|title=Global Innovation Index 2021, 14th Edition|url=https://www.wipo.int/publications/en/details.jsp?id=4560|access-date=22 September 2021|website=www.wipo.int|publisher=World Intellectual Property Organization |doi=10.34667/tind.44315 |isbn=9789280532494 |language=en}}</ref> The report highlights [[E-participation]] and Government's online service as an area of weakness to greater innovation. Broadband penetration in Jamaica stood at 77.7'''%''' in March 2021.<ref>{{cite web|date=22 September 2021|title=Revenues dip to $15b for telecoms during pandemic|url=https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/business/20210922/revenues-dip-15b-telecoms-during-pandemic|access-date=22 September 2021|website=jamaica-gleaner.com|language=en}}</ref> Via the National Broadband Initiative, the Jamaican government seeks to provide Internet connection to every household by 2025.<ref>{{cite web|date=21 December 2020|title=Internet access to be declared a public good in Jamaica: CARICOM BUSINESS|url=https://caricom.org/internet-access-to-be-declared-a-public-good-in-jamaica-caricom-business/|access-date=22 September 2021|website=CARICOM|language=en-US}}</ref>

== Scientific publications ==
[[Caribbean Community|Caricom]] scientists have a modest output in terms of scientific research papers. [[UNESCO]] reports that between 2011 and 2019, output has fluctuated for most member states. Between 2017 and 2019, Caricom researchers continued to publish mostly in areas related to [[Outline of health sciences|health sciences]] with Jamaica contributing over 20% of articles in this field. In terms of research density, Jamaica produced 114 publications per million inhabitants in 2019. Between 2014 and 2016, Jamaica ranked 4th in terms of average of relative citations (1.36). In terms of scientific co-authorship, between 2017 and 2019, Jamaica produced 379 publications in collaboration with the US, 118 with UK, 95 with Canada, 52 with France and 51 with Mexico.<ref>{{cite web|date=2021|title=UNESCO Science Report 2021|url=https://unesdoc.unesco.org/in/documentViewer.xhtml?v=2.1.196&id=p::usmarcdef_0000377433&file=/in/rest/annotationSVC/DownloadWatermarkedAttachment/attach_import_a8477af4-1d6a-442f-af2f-7e77b02e5c31?_=377433eng.pdf&updateUrl=updateUrl7576&ark=/ark:/48223/pf0000377433/PDF/377433eng.pdf.multi&fullScreen=true&locale=en#page=212|access-date=18 September 2021|website=unesdoc.unesco.org}}</ref>

== Science activities ==
Notable activities that are geared towards promoting science and innovation:

The Coding in Schools Programme: Launched in 2021, the aim is promote the teaching and learning of [[Computer coding|coding]] in public educational institutions across Jamaica.<ref>{{Cite web|last=WILLIAMS|first=ROCHELLE|date=9 May 2021|title=Pilot Coding in Schools Programme Launched – Jamaica Information Service|url=https://jis.gov.jm/pilot-coding-in-schools-programme-launched/|access-date=18 February 2021|website=jis.gov.jm}}</ref>

[[Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics|STEM]] Ambassador Programme: Launched in early 2021, the programme allows industry experts to encourage STEM students to achieve academic and career goals through consistent mentorship and interactive support.<ref>{{cite web|date=2 February 2021|title=SRC launches programme with STEM ambassadors|url=https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/src-launches-programme-with-stem-ambassadors_213740|access-date=3 October 2021|website=Jamaica Observer}}</ref>

The Science Resource Centre & Innovation Laboratory: Opened in 2018, the lab is focused on the nurturing and development of revenue-generating clean technology companies within the region. It's the first facility of its kind within the Caribbean.<ref>{{cite web|last=AINSWORTH|first=MORRIS|date=13 April 2018|title=Innovation Centre Opens at SRC|url=https://jis.gov.jm/innovation-centre-opens-at-src/|access-date=3 October 2021}}</ref>

The Public [[Wi-Fi]] Hotspot Programme: Jamaica has thirteen Wi-Fi-hotspots (as of September 2021), providing free public access to Internet services. Seven new locations are planned by March 2022.<ref>{{cite web|last=PATTERSON|first=CHRIS|date=30 September 2021|title=More Public Wi-Fi Hotspots – Jamaica Information Service|url=https://jis.gov.jm/more-public-wi-fi-hotspots/|access-date=3 October 2021|website=jis.gov.jm}}</ref>

Science and Technology Fairs.<ref>{{cite web|last=GUNN|first=TOMEICA|date=2 July 2019|title=Public Invited to National Science Fair July 4 – Jamaica Information Service|url=https://jis.gov.jm/public-invited-to-national-science-fair-july-4/|access-date=3 October 2021|website=jis.gov.jm}}</ref>

== Institutions ==
There are several institutions involved in undertaking research:<ref>{{cite web|date=2020|title=Research Institutes in Jamaica|url=https://www.commonwealthofnations.org/sectors-jamaica/education/research_institutes/|access-date=8 October 2021|website=Commonwealth of Nations|language=en-US}}</ref>
*The [[Medical Association of Jamaica]], whose origins date back to 1877, provides a wide range of services including medical education seminars and workshops.
*The [[Institute of Jamaica]], founded in 1879 "For the Encouragement of Literature, Science and Art in Jamaica".
*The Jamaica Institution of Engineers, founded in the 1940s to promote and encourage the general advancement of engineering.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020|title=Jamaica Institution of Engineers – …|url=https://www.jiejamaica.org/|access-date=8 October 2021|language=en-US}}</ref>
*[[University of the West Indies|The University of the West Indies]], founded in 1948, has faculties of medical sciences and natural sciences.
* The Geological Society of Jamaica, established in 1955, seeks to provide for the professional growth of earth scientists at all levels of expertise and from all sectors<ref>{{Cite web|title=Geological Society of Jamaica Home Page|url=https://geologicalsocietyofjamaica.org/|access-date=8 October 2021|website=geologicalsocietyofjamaica.org}}</ref>
*[[University of Technology, Jamaica|The University of Technology]], founded as the Jamaica Institute of Technology in 1958.
* The Scientific Research Council, located in Kingston and founded in 1960, coordinates scientific research efforts in Jamaica.<ref name=":0" />
*Sugar Industry Research Institute, founded in 1973, aims to research and develop methods to improve agriculture technology as it relates to sugar cane production.<ref>{{Cite web|title=SIRI History|url=http://jamaicasugar.org/siri-history.html|access-date=8 October 2021|website=SIA|language=en-GB}}</ref>
*The [[Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI)|Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute]], founded in 1975, carries out research and development for agriculture in the Caribbean region.

== Achievements ==
[[File:Evan Dale Abel at National Institutes of Health.jpg|thumb|228x228px|Evan Dale Abel]]
In 2021, two Jamaican scientists won the prestigious International Network for Government Science Advice (INGSA) 2020 awards, making Jamaica the first country to take home prizes in the organisation's two award categories in any one year.<ref>{{cite web|date=26 February 2021|title=Jamaican scientists win int'l awards|url=https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Jamaican_scientists_win_intl_awards|access-date=7 September 2021|website=Jamaica Observer}}</ref>

Jamaica has produced many internationally awarded scientists. Examples include:

* [[Henry Lowe (scientist)|Henry Lowe]], honoured by the United States Government for his contributions to the sciences, science education and exemplary public service. Lowe was presented with a proclamation from the United States House of Representatives.
* [[Thomas Lecky]], made an honorary [[Order of the British Empire|Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire]] for meritorious and devoted service to agriculture.
* [[Patricia DeLeon]], awarded the [[Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring]] by [[Barack Obama]].
* [[Geoff Palmer (scientist)|Geoff Palmer]], [[Orders, decorations, and medals of the United Kingdom|Knighted]] by [[Elizabeth II|Queen Elizabeth ll]] for his services to human rights, science and charity. Palmer also became the fourth person to be honoured with the [[American Society of Brewing Chemists]] Award of Distinction.
* [[E. Dale Abel|Evan Dale Abel]], named by ''[[Cell Press]]'' as one of the most inspirational Black scientists in the [[United States]].
* [[Cicely Williams|Cicely Delphine Williams]], made a [[Order of St Michael and St George|Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George]], awarded the [[James Spence Medal|James Spence Gold Medal]] of the [[Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health]] for the discovery of Kwashiorkor. She was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Science from the [[University of Ghana]], for her "love, care and devotion to sick children".
* [[Manley West]], received the Certificate of Merit from the [[Government of Canada]].
* [[Maydianne Andrade]], named one of the Brilliant 10 by [[Popular Science|''Popular Science'' magazine]].
* [[Simone Badal-McCreath|Simone Anne Marie Badal-McCreath]], awarded the [[Elsevier Foundation Award for Early Career Scientists in the Developing World]] for her creation of a lab at the Natural Products Institute to research the anti-cancer properties of natural Jamaican products.
* [[Patricia Daley]], announced as one of the [[United Kingdom]]'s 100 most influential people of African or African Caribbean heritage, in recognition of her contribution to education.
* [[Karen E. Nelson]], received the Helmholtz International Fellow Award.
*[[Walt Braithwaite|Walt W. Braithwaite]], the Walt E. Braithwaite Legacy Award is named in his honour.
*[[Bertram Fraser-Reid]] received numerous awards worldwide. These include the 1977 Merck, Sharp & Dohme Award from the [[Chemical Institute of Canada]]; the [[Claude S. Hudson Award]] in carbohydrate chemistry from the [[American Chemical Society]] in 1989; recognition as the Senior Distinguished U.S. Scientist by Germany’s [[Alexander von Humboldt Foundation]] in 1990; [[Percy L. Julian Award|the Percy Julian Award]] from the National Organization of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers in 1991; North Carolina Chemist of the Year by the [[American Institute of Chemists|American Institute of Chemistry]] in 1995 and the Haworth Memorial Medal and Lectureship from the [[Royal Society of Chemistry]] in 1995.

== Notable scientific and technological contributions ==
[[File:Jaipur Knee (5018131327).jpg|thumb|The JaipurKnee]]
[[File:Kwashiorkor 6903.jpg|alt=|thumb|Children with Kwashiorkor]]

=== Medicine                                                                                                                                   ===
* Discovery of the [[antibiotic]] Monamycin, by Kenneth E. Magnus in 1959.<ref>{{cite web|title=Professor Kenneth Magnus {{!}} Mona Library|url=https://www.mona.uwi.edu/library/professor-kenneth-magnus|access-date=9 September 2021|website=www.mona.uwi.edu}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=11 November 2015|title=It happened this week in politics - 1959|url=https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20151118/it-happened-week-politics-1959|access-date=9 September 2021|website=jamaica-gleaner.com|language=en}}</ref>
*Discovery of the child malnutrition syndrome, [[kwashiorkor]], by [[Cicely Williams]]. She was the first to recognise and conduct research on kwashiorkor and differentiate it from other dietary deficiencies. Williams also developed a treatment regime to combat the disease – this saved many lives.<ref>{{cite web|last=Reeves|first=Sue|date=2016|title=Cicely Williams and kwashiorkor - Hektoen International|url=https://hekint.org/2017/01/28/cicely-williams-and-kwashiorkor/|access-date=3 September 2021|website=hekint.org}}</ref>
*The pioneer of treatments for [[Pediatrics|paediatric]] [[Sickle cell disease|sickle cell anaemia]], by [[Yvette Francis-McBarnette]]. She was the first to use [[prophylactic antibiotics]] in the treatment of children with sickle cell.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Roberts|first=Sam|date=7 April 2016|title=Yvette Fay Francis-McBarnette, a Pioneer in Treating Sickle Cell Anemia, Dies at 89|newspaper=The New York Times |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/08/nyregion/yvette-fay-francis-mcbarnette-a-pioneer-in-treating-sickle-cell-anemia-dies-at-89.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160409183230/http://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/08/nyregion/yvette-fay-francis-mcbarnette-a-pioneer-in-treating-sickle-cell-anemia-dies-at-89.html|archive-date=9 April 2016|access-date=21 October 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Collins|first=Sonya|date=|title=Breaking barriers in medicine and race|url=http://yalemedicine.yale.edu/spring2011/people/alumni/109125/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160423182259/http://yalemedicine.yale.edu/spring2011/people/alumni/109125/|archive-date=23 April 2016|access-date=21 October 2021}}</ref>
* [[Medical cannabis#Brand names|Canasol]], a medicated eye-drop for the treatment of [[glaucoma]], created by [[Manley West|West]] and [[Alber Lockhart|Lockhart]]. Canasol reduces late stage glaucoma fluid eye pressure and is still one of the most popular drugs for treating [[glaucoma]].<ref>{{cite web |last=The Gleaner |date=2017 |title=Manley West and Albert Lockhart's Canasol: A significant breakthrough {{!}} Jamaica 55 in 24 hours |url=http://go-jamaica.com/ja55/article.php?id=5 |access-date=3 September 2021 |website=go-jamaica.com}}</ref>
* The JaipurKnee, a budget-friendly [[Prosthesis|prosthetic]] knee joint, co-created by Joel Sadler. The knee was listed at number 18 in [[Time (magazine)|''Time Magazine's'']] “50 Best Inventions of 2009”.<ref>{{Cite magazine|date=2009|title=The 50 Best Inventions of 2009 - TIME|language=en-US|magazine=Time|url=https://content.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1934027_1934003_1933963,00.html|access-date=14 October 2021|issn=}}</ref> The JaipurKnee is made of self-lubricating, oil-filled nylon and is both flexible and stable, even on irregular terrain. It was further developed by [[Stanford University]] in collaboration with the Jaipur Foot Group, a charity that provides prostheses to [[India]]n amputees.<ref>{{cite web|date=1 February 2010|title='Magic knee'- Poor nations to benefit from Jamaican prosthetic invention|url=https://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20100201/news/news11.html|access-date=3 September 2021|website=jamaica-gleaner.com|language=en}}</ref> The JaipurKnee has since been exported to many countries, impacting the lives of amputees around the world.<ref>{{cite web|last=Sunny Sebastian|date=31 August 2011|title=Jaipur Foot travels to Jaffna again|url=https://mea.gov.in/articles-in-indian-media.htm?dtl/13745/Jaipur+Foot+travels+to+Jaffna+again|access-date=2 October 2021|website=mea.gov.in}}</ref>
*The (Ramphal) Cardiac Surgery Simulator, invented by Dr Paul Ramphal and Dr Daniel Coore.<ref>{{cite web |last=Douglas |first=Luke |date=27 February 2012 |title=UWI scores big with heart surgery simulator |url=https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/uwi-scores-big-with-heart-surgery-simulator_10883828 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120228211612/https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/uwi-scores-big-with-heart-surgery-simulator_10883828 |archive-date=28 February 2012 |access-date=8 September 2021 |website=Jamaica Observer}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=4 November 2013|title=UWI Mona's Cardiac Simulator goes into commercial production|url=https://www.mona.uwi.edu/marcom/newsroom/entry/5349|access-date=8 September 2021|website=www.mona.uwi.edu}}</ref> The model is used in the training of many cardiothoracic surgery residents in the United States<ref>{{cite web|date=2021|title=Cardiothoracic Surgery Simulators (includes videos)|url=https://www.med.unc.edu/surgery/ct/simulators/|access-date=4 October 2021|website=Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery|language=en-US}}</ref>
[[File:Hubble Space Telescope Grappled by Shuttle Arm (27512134324).jpg|thumb|Rashford's invention was used in the maintenance of the [[Hubble Space Telescope]]]]

=== Space exploration                           ===
*Co-invention of the world's first portable 3D non-destructive evaluation (NDE) system, by [[Robert Rashford]]. The NDE system detects flaws in materials used to construct aircraft, spacecraft and industrial pipelines without having to take these materials apart. The system was used in the maintenance of the United States Government's [[Hubble Space Telescope]].<ref>{{cite web |date=8 August 2019 |title=Jamaica Observer Limited |url=https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/editorial/prof-lalor-s-order-of-merit-well-deserved_171785?profile=146 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210903212839/https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/editorial/prof-lalor-s-order-of-merit-well-deserved_171785?profile=146 |archive-date=3 September 2021 |access-date=3 September 2021 |website=Jamaica Observer}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=27 October 2000 |title=US Patent for System and method for portable nondestructive examination with realtime three-dimensional tomography Patent (Patent # 6,341,153 issued January 22, 2002) - Justia Patents Search |url=https://patents.justia.com/patent/6341153 |access-date=17 March 2022 |website=patents.justia.com}}</ref>
*Invention of a protective enclosure for use transporting [[orbital replacement unit]]s (orus) within a space craft, by Robert Rashford.<ref>{{cite web|date=20 September 2002|title=US Patent for Protective enclosure|url=https://patents.justia.com/patent/6863190|access-date=1 October 2021|website=patents.justia.com}}</ref>
*Robert Rashford also designed and developed unique spacecraft support systems for the [[Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite]] (UARS) Airborne Support Equipment (UASE) at the [[Orbital Sciences Corporation]] (OSC). At [[General Electric]], he designed and tested a variety of spacecraft for both commercial and military applications. At [[Bechtel|Bechtel Corporation]], he designed a nuclear reactor support structure. He has designed numerous highly complex engineering systems that successfully flew on board [[NASA|NASA's]] Manned Space Flight Programs.<ref>{{cite web|title=Robert Rashford Biography Webb Telescope/NASA|url=https://www.jwst.nasa.gov/content/meetTheTeam/people/rashford.html|access-date=1 October 2021|website=www.jwst.nasa.gov|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=2017|title=Robert Rashford|url=http://icons.niherst.gov.tt/icon/robert-rashford-ci1/|access-date=1 October 2021|website=Icons|language=en-US}}</ref>
[[File:O Star Binary med.jpg|thumb|Mercedes Richards was a pioneer in the field of interacting binary stars]]

=== Astronomy and astrophysics   ===

* [[Mercedes Richards]] was a pioneer in the fields of [[computational astrophysics]], [[Astrophysics|stellar astrophysics]], [[exoplanet]]s and the physical dynamics of interacting [[Binary star|binary star systems]].

* Richards was the first [[astronomer]] to make images of the gravitational flow of gas between the stars in any interacting binary.
* She was the first to image the [[Chromosphere|chromospheres]] and [[Accretion disk|accretion disks]] in [[Algol binaries]].
* She was the first in astronomy to apply the technique of [[tomography]].
* She was the first [[Astrophysics|astrophysicist]] to make theoretical hydrodynamic simulations of the [[Algol]] binary stars.
* She was the first astronomer to discover [[Starspot|starspots]] on the cool star in an Algol binary.
* She was the first astrophysicist to apply novel distance correlation statistical methods to large astronomical databases.<ref>{{cite web|last=pandamagazine|date=19 October 2020|title=Physicist of the Month: Professor Mercedes Richards – PANDA Magazine|url=https://pandamagazine.wp.st-andrews.ac.uk/mercedes-richards/|access-date=7 September 2021|website=pandamagazine.wp.st-andrews.ac.uk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=2016|title=Clipping from Centre Daily Times|url=http://kansasstatehistoricalsociety.newspapers.com/clip/71022480/centre-daily-times/|access-date=7 September 2021|website=Newspapers.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|date=30 September 1995|title=Chromospheric Activity in Algol Binaries.|url=https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/citations/ADA308095|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211024171255/https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/citations/ADA308095|url-status=live|archive-date=October 24, 2021|journal=|language=en|via=VIRGINIA UNIV CHARLOTTESVILLE|last1=Richards|first1=Merecedes}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=11 July 2013|title=Mercedes Richards Receives Musgrave Gold Medal — Eberly College of Science|url=http://science.psu.edu/news-and-events/2008-news/Richards11-2008.htm|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130711175135/http://science.psu.edu/news-and-events/2008-news/Richards11-2008.htm|archive-date=11 July 2013|access-date=11 October 2021}}</ref>
[[File:Initial Graphics Exchange Specification Logo.svg|thumb|Braithwaite's common data format from Boeing was used as a basis for developing the IGES protocol.]]

=== Aviation/computer science ===

* Invention of the [[Lingo (programming language)|Lingo]] programming language used in [[Adobe Director]], by [[John Thompson (inventor)|John Henry Thompson]]. The language is used for animation, web design, graphics, sound and video games.<ref>{{Cite web|title=John Henry Thompson: Computer Programming and Software Inventions|url=https://www.black-inventor.com/john-thompson|access-date=23 November 2021|website=Famous Black Inventors|language=en-US}}</ref>
*Co-invention of methods and apparatus for managing mobile content, by John Henry Thompson.<ref>{{Cite patent|number=8700804|title=United States Patent: 8700804 - Methods and apparatus for managing mobile content|gdate=April 15, 2014|invent1=Meyers|invent2=Thompson|inventor1-first=Peter William|inventor2-first=John Henry|url=https://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=/netahtml/PTO/srchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8700804.PN.&OS=PN/8700804&RS=PN/8700804}}</ref>

* [[Walt Braithwaite|Walt W. Braithwaite]] helped transform the field of aerospace design. Prior to the 1970s, the aerospace industry developed new airplane models using manual drafting techniques. Braithwaite led the development of [[computer-aided design]]/[[computer-aided manufacturing]] (CAD/CAM) systems for Boeing. Airplane models could now be designed and manufactured digitally.
*Braithwaite also played a critical part in developing the [[IGES|Initial Graphics Exchange Specification]] (IGES). As the lead engineer responsible for technical direction in developing an information network to integrate computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing, he led development of [[Boeing]]'s common data format and translators. These were subsequently used as the basis for developing the IGES protocol.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Schuchart|date=2021-02-22|title=Celebrating Black History Month with A/E/C Heroes|url=https://schuchart.com/2021/02/22/celebrating-black-history-month-with-a-e-c-heroes/|access-date=2021-10-16|website=Schuchart|language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Chemistry ===

* Development of the [[Glycosyl donor|"armed-disarmed" principle in glycosylation chemistry]], by [[Bertram Fraser-Reid]].<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|date=2020|title=Bertram Fraser-Reid Obituary (2020) The Herald Sun|url=https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/heraldsun/name/bertram-fraser-reid-obituary?id=8726815|access-date=21 October 2021|website=Legacy.com}}</ref> 
*Construction of the largest ever synthetic hetero-oligosaccharide without the use of automated methods, by Bertram Fraser-Reid.<ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite web|last=Boman|first=Stu|date=8 November 2006|title=Largest Synthetic Hetero-Oligosaccharide|url=http://pubsapp.acs.org/cen/news/84/i46/8446carbs.html|access-date=21 October 2021|website=pubsapp.acs.org}}</ref>
*Isolation of dibenzyl trisulphide (DTS) from the [[Petiveria|guinea hen weed]] and identification of anti-proliferation and/or cytotoxic activity on a wide range of cancer cell lines, by Williams and Levy.<ref name=":1">{{cite web|last=Southey|first=Flora|date=21 August 2017|title=US patent for Jamaican anti-cancer weed|url=https://www.outsourcing-pharma.com/Article/2017/08/22/US-patent-for-Jamaican-anti-cancer-weed|access-date=10 September 2021|website=outsourcing-pharma.com|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=20 July 2017 |title=Utech professor gets patent for anti-cancer drug from Guinea hen weed |url=https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/utech_professor_gets_patent_for_anti-cancer_drug_from_guinea_hen_weed |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170723004246/https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/utech_professor_gets_patent_for_anti-cancer_drug_from_guinea_hen_weed |archive-date=23 July 2017 |access-date=10 September 2021 |website=Jamaica Observer}}</ref>
*Identification of DTS derivatives (e.g. DTS-[[albumin]] complexes) for providing anti-proliferation and/or cytotoxic activity on a wide range of cancer cell lines, by Williams and Levy.<ref name=":1" /> 
* Development of methods of isolating and/or providing DTS and/or its derivatives in an effective amount for providing an anti-proliferation and/or cytotoxic activity on cancer cell lines, by Williams and Levy.<ref name=":1" />

*Isolation of chemical compounds from the [[Tillandsia recurvata|ball moss]] plant and identification of anti-cancer activity, by [[Henry Lowe (scientist)|Henry Lowe]]. Developed into Alpha Prostate, a supplement used in the management of [[prostate]] health.<ref>{{cite web |last=Sharlene |first=Hendricks |date=30 September 2018 |title=New prostate cancer development |url=https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/new-prostate-cancer-development-lowe-says-research-has-found-treatment-molecule-in-cannabis-jamaican-ball-moss_145401 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181001092350/https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/new-prostate-cancer-development-lowe-says-research-has-found-treatment-molecule-in-cannabis-jamaican-ball-moss_145401 |archive-date=1 October 2018 |access-date=10 September 2021 |website=Jamaica Observer}}</ref>
*Isolation of eryngial from [[eryngium foetidum]] and Identification as an anti-[[Pinworm infection|threadworm]] agent, by Reese, Robinson and Forbes.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2 May 2003|title=UWI Scientists receive Letters Patent as inventors of Medicaments for the treatment of threadworms|url=https://www.mona.uwi.edu/marcom/newsroom/entry/2800|access-date=8 October 2021|website=www.mona.uwi.edu}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=AMANDA YARNELL C&EN WASHINGTON|date=7 June 2004|title=Home Field Advantage|url=https://cen.acs.org/articles/82/i23/HOME-FIELD-ADVANTAGE.html|access-date=8 October 2021|website=cen.acs.org}}</ref>

=== Industrial processes ===

* Invention of the [[Barley Abrasion Process]], by [[Geoff Palmer (scientist)|Sir Geoff Palmer]]. A patented technique that speeds up the production of malt from grain and which is used by the British brewing industry.<ref>{{cite web|date=31 December 2013|title=First black university professor knighted|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/13138366.first-black-university-professor-knighted/|access-date=21 September 2021|website=HeraldScotland|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":3" />
*Sir Geoff Palmer was also the first person to utilise the [[scanning electron microscope]] to study malt production in detail.<ref name=":3">{{cite web|date=5 October 2017|title=UK brewing is in good hands {{!}} Sir Geoff Palmer – The Brewers Journal|url=https://www.brewersjournal.info/uk-brewing-is-in-good-hands-sir-geoff-palmer/|access-date=2 October 2021|language=en-US}}</ref>
*Development of a commercial process to extract [[Quassinoid|quassinoids]] from [[Bitter wood|Bitterwood]], by Yee and Jacobs.<ref>{{Cite web|date=28 June 2009|title=Bitterwood - an untapped treasure|url=http://old.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20090628/arts/arts5.html|access-date=20 October 2021|website=old.jamaica-gleaner.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=31 July 2013|title=US Patent for Simplified process to extract quassinoids|url=https://patents.justia.com/patent/10570110|access-date=20 October 2021|website=patents.justia.com}}</ref>
[[File:Photo ortanique.JPG|thumb|200x200px|The Ortanique]]

=== Agricultural science                                                               ===
* Creation of disease resistant [[papaya]], by [[Dr Paula Tennant]]. She manipulated the genetic make-up of the ''local'' papaya and created a new bioengineered variety that was resistant to [[Papaya ringspot virus|papaya ringspot Virus]] (PRSV). This variant was named ''Jamaica Solo Sunrise'' and helped fortify the papaya sector.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Reviving Jamaica's papaya industry|url=http://www.uwimonanow.com/index_view_more.php?id=290|access-date=15 October 2021|website=www.uwimonanow.com}}</ref>
*Creation of new cattle breeds suited to tropical climates and terrain, by [[Thomas Lecky]]. He successfully created a new breed of dairy cattle –‘[[Jamaica Hope]]’ which is a combination of the British [[Jersey cattle|Jersey]] (a small, light-feeding cow), the [[Holstein Friesian cattle|Holstein]] (a heavy milk producer cow) and the Indian [[Sahiwal cattle|Sahiwal]]. The Jamaica Hope has a high heat tolerance, high resistance to [[tick]]s and [[tick-borne diseases]] and can produce much milk, even in the poor [[Pasture|pasture land]] typical of [[tropical climate]]s. It is extensively exported to other countries in the [[Caribbean]], as well as [[Latin America]]. Dr. Lecky followed his Jamaica Hope success with the creation of two other cattle breeds – [[List of cattle breeds#J|Jamaica Red]] and [[List of cattle breeds#J|Jamaica Black]]. Lecky's work impacted on the development of cattle in many tropical countries.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2017|title=Thomas Lecky|url=http://icons.niherst.gov.tt/icon/thomas-lecky-ci1/|access-date=13 October 2021|website=Icons|language=en-US}}</ref>
*Discovery of a new and distinct variety of the [[Zingiberaceae]] family, by Errol McGhie.<ref>{{cite web|date=14 April 2017|title=Jamaican Inventor Secures Potentially Game Changing Patents|url=https://nationwideradiojm.com/jamaican-inventor-secures-potentially-game-changing-patents/|access-date=17 September 2021|website=Nationwide 90FM|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite patent|number=USPP26408P3|title=Ginger plant named 'McghieJCG'|gdate=2016-02-09|invent1=McGhie|inventor1-first=Errol Anthony|url=https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP26408P3/en}}</ref> This has been developed into a [[nutraceutical]].<ref>{{cite web |date=23 June 2019 |title=NCU launches nutraceutical product Zon Teasan |url=https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/NCU_launches_nutraceutical_product_Zon_Teasan/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190625234554/https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/NCU_launches_nutraceutical_product_Zon_Teasan/ |archive-date=25 June 2019 |access-date=17 September 2021 |website=Jamaica Observer}}</ref>
*Creation of the [[Tangor|Ortanique]], a [[citrus]] fruit hybrid of the [[mandarin orange]] and the [[tangerine]]. In 1939, Dr Phillips was recognised by the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) as the creator. The fruit is exported to many countries including Panama, London, New Zealand and Australia.<ref>{{cite web|last=Staff|date=2018|title=On this day in Jamaican History: The Ortanique Fruit|url=http://jamaicans.com/day-jamaican-history-ortanique-fruit/|access-date=6 October 2021|website=Jamaicans.com|language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Mathematics ===

* Creation of a mathematical cost capability trade-off model for ''[[HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08)|HMS Queen Elizabeth]],'' by [[Nira Chamberlain]] (who is predominately of Jamaican heritage).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dr Nira Chamberlain - Mathematics, University of York |url=https://www.york.ac.uk/maths/acelebrationofmathematicians/drnirachamberlain/ |access-date=17 March 2022 |website=www.york.ac.uk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022 |title=Nira Chamberlain {{!}} London Mathematical Society |url=https://www.lms.ac.uk/content/nira-chamberlain |access-date=17 March 2022 |website=www.lms.ac.uk}}</ref>
* Invention of a long multiplication method, used in some [[UK]] schools, by Nira Chamberlain.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022 |title=Professor Nira Chamberlain, Loughborough University |url=https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/maths/staff/nira-chamberlain/ |access-date=17 March 2022 |website=www.lboro.ac.uk |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022 |title=Dr Nira Chamberlain OBE |url=https://www.speakersforschools.org/speakers/dr-nira-chamberlain-obe/ |access-date=17 March 2022 |website=Speakers for Schools |language=en-GB}}</ref>

=== Technology ===

* Patented Compact Design H2 Energy Storage and Generation system.<ref>{{cite web|last=Staff|date=27 May 2017|title=Jamaican Inventor Harlo Mayne Creates Water-Powered Car|url=https://iamajamaican.net/news/2017/05/jamaican-inventor-harlo-mayne-water-powered-car/|access-date=29 September 2021|website=I AM A JAMAICAN|language=en-US}}</ref>
* Patented magnetic gearbox system.<ref>{{cite web|last=Stabroek News|date=6 April 2020|title=Jamaicans invent magnetic gearbox system, eyeing NASA project|url=https://www.stabroeknews.com/2020/04/06/news/regional/jamaica/jamaicans-invent-magnetic-gearbox-system-eyeing-nasa-project/|access-date=1 October 2021|website=Stabroek News|language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Miscellaneous ===
*Discovery of previously unknown historical [[human migration]] patterns, by [[Neil Hanchard]] and his team. They also identified more than 3 million genetic variants that had not been previously observed which could contribute to making genetic tests more accurate for people with African ancestry.
*Co-development of a new type of [[polyhexahydrotriazine]] (PHT). For his contribution, Gavin Jones became the first Jamaican named among [[Foreign Policy|Foreign Policy magazine's]] FP Top 100 Global Thinkers.<ref>{{cite web |date=12 December 2016 |title=Jamaican scientist creates history |url=https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Jamaican--scientist-creates-history_83404 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161214022804/https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Jamaican--scientist-creates-history_83404 |archive-date=14 December 2016 |access-date=19 September 2021 |website=Jamaica Observer}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=2016|title=Global Thinkers 2016|url=https://2016globalthinkers.foreignpolicy.com/2016/profile/jeannette-garcia-and-gavin-jones?3fa4cfa909=|access-date=19 September 2021|website=2016globalthinkers.foreignpolicy.com}}</ref>

* The first comprehensive [[human microbiome]] study, by [[Karen E. Nelson|Karen Nelson]] and team.<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 April 2016 |title=Dr. Karen E. Nelson: Intersecting Science and Humanity to Boost Global Health |url=https://www.ccp.edu/about-us/news/featured-news-article/dr-karen-e-nelson-intersecting-science-and-humanity-boost-global |access-date=17 March 2022 |website=Community College of Philadelphia |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Stories |first=Tri-State Defender Technology |date=29 April 2016 |title=Dr. Karen E. Nelson – a game-changing scientist breaking barriers |url=https://tri-statedefender.com/dr-karen-e-nelson-a-game-changing-scientist-breaking-barriers/04/29/ |access-date=17 March 2022 |website=TSDMemphis.com |language=en-US}}</ref>
* Identified the link between adipose tissue [[glucose transporter]] ([[GLUT4]]) and insulin resistance, by [[E. Dale Abel|Evan Dale Abel]] and [[Barbara B. Kahn|Barbara Kahn]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Biography {{!}} E. Dale Abel Laboratory |url=https://abel.lab.uiowa.edu/biography |access-date=8 May 2022 |website=abel.lab.uiowa.edu}}</ref>

== See also ==

* [[List of Jamaicans#Science and medicine|List of Jamaicans - Science and medicine]]
*[[List of Jamaican inventions and discoveries]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.ncst.gov.jm/ National Commission on Science and Technology]

{{Americas topic|Science and technology in }}

[[Category:Science and technology in Jamaica| ]]