Research Funds at Universities
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The article contains several inaccuracies in its reference to a planned new research center at the University of Pennsylvania.
First, that Penn’s proposed Institute for Advanced Science and Technology is devoted “almost exclusively to military research” is certainly news to us. What the university is planning to build is badly needed research space to continue its commitment to basic science research. The institute will provide laboratories for collaborative work between computer and cognitive scientists, chemists, chemical engineers and bioengineers.
On the question of funding, the university is anticipating total grants from the Department of Defense to cover not quite half of the $75-million capital cost, with the university raising the remaining funds. Funding for all research projects at the IAST will come through the traditional science funding sources, including the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy in addition to the Department of Defense. The Department of Defense supports approximately 5% of Penn’s total sponsored research endeavor.
One historic building is being considered for demolition, not two as the article reports.
BARRY S. COOPERMAN
Vice Provost for Research
University of Pennsylvania
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