Edgar J. DaSilva (21 August 1941 – 28 October 2007) was an Indian microbiologist whose passion for the practical application of his subject had driven him to champion biotechnology in developing countries around the world. DaSilva joined the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1974; and rose to be head of its Life Sciences section, as his foresight and perception of science in the global context allowed him to be proactive in identifying scientific priorities and developing new and appropriate thrusts for UNESCO's program actions.