St. Louis (November 14, 2002) - Divergence, Inc. received the Excellence in Life Sciences Entrepreneurship Award today from the Missouri Biotechnology Association. The award recognizes Divergence as one of the leading early stage biotechnology companies in the state.

"Divergence appreciates this recognition for its success in the entrepreneurial steps of building an outstanding and competitive biotechnology firm," said Derek Rapp, Chief Executive Officer of Divergence. "Through our successful application of cutting-edge technology to large, underserved markets, we intend to continue on our path toward scientific and financial success."

The Missouri Biotechnology Association's mission is to promote, educate and support research, development and commercialization of the life sciences in Missouri using the tools of modern biotechnology. This is the first year that it has given an award for entrepreneurship. Co-Recipient of the award was Sceptor Industries, a Kansas City-based biodefense company.

Divergence, Inc. is a research and development company dedicated to the discovery of effective and ecologically sound strategies for the control of parasites and other pests. The company's initial focus is on parasitic nematodes, one of the world's major pest groups. Nematodes are roundworms that cause billions of dollars in damage annually to numerous crops, including corn, soybeans, cotton, strawberries and bananas. Nematodes also cause widespread disease in animals, including infections such as heartworm in dogs and cats and intestinal worms in livestock. Nematode-induced human diseases include elephantiasis and African river blindness.

For more information on Divergence, visit www.divergence.com.