Houston-based Laurus Energy, a developer of coal gasification projects, said today that it has hired on Rebecca McDonald as CEO of the firm. The firm said that McDonald has more than 25 years of experience in the energy industry. The firm's venture backer, MDV-Mohr Davidow Ventures, also disclosed it has invested in the firm. Laurus is focused on a gasification process to turn un-mineable coal seams into syngas. MDV's Erik Straser sits on the firm's board. Amount of the funding was not disclosed. More information »