Life Technologies Corporation (NASDAQ:LIFE), a provider of innovative life science solutions, today announced that William S. Shanahan has been appointed to its board of directors, effective December 16, 2008. Mr. Shanahan is the former president of Colgate-Palmolive Company and currently serves on the board of directors of Visa, Inc. (NYSE:V), Diageo PLC (NYSE:DEO), and MSD Ignition, Inc., a privately held company.

“Bill brings a wealth of global business and governance expertise to Life Technologies,” said Greg Lucier, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Life Technologies. “In particular, his vast experience in sales and marketing with one of the world’s most well-known brands will be invaluable as we work to better understand and serve our customers. His service on the boards of other prestigious companies will also provide good stewardship to the company. I welcome Bill to the Board and look forward to working with him to position Life Technologies for even greater success.”

Mr. Shanahan joined Colgate-Palmolive in 1965 upon graduating from college and began his tenure with the company in the international training program. He held roles of increasing responsibility in every division around the world, focusing on consistent global processes, market share leadership and profitable growth. He became chief operating officer in 1989 and was named president in 1992. During his tenure of responsibility for the company’s operations, Colgate-Palmolive’s sales more than doubled, and profits quintupled. Mr. Shanahan retired from Colgate-Palmolive in 2005.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio and raised in Philadelphia, Pa., Mr. Shanahan received his undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College.