The genetic sequences of prokaryotes, by contrast, are obtained by a process called whole-genome shotgunning, which Dr Venter has pioneered.

ECONOMIST: Fruit-fly genetics

In particular, Craig Venter, Sir John's rival from the private sector, could yet be given a prize for the technique known as whole-genome shotgunning.

ECONOMIST: This year, the Nobel authorities have shown a deft touch

He used a new DNA-sequencing technique called whole-genome shotgunning that he and a colleague, Hamilton Smith, had invented, and patented a good tranche of human genes on the way.

ECONOMIST: The big beasts of genomics