(AP)—Israel's prestigious Wolf Prize this year will honor American, German and Austrian scientists as well as an architect from Portugal.

Wolf winners are considered strong contenders for . In the 34 years the Wolf Foundation has granted the awards, about one out of three laureates in chemistry, physics and medicine have gone on to receive the Nobel.

The winners were announced in Wednesday.

American scientist Robert S. Langer was honored for that "have had a profound impact on medicine," a foundation statement said.

Eduardo Souto de Mouro from Portugal was named "to reward his advancement of the craft and ideas of architecture."

The eight winners from four countries share $100,000 awards in each of five categories.

President Shimon Peres will award the prizes in May.