August 29, 2012

Manchin, Rockefeller & Rahall Announce Grant to Advance Research at Marshall University

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Jay Rockefeller, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, and Joe Manchin, as well as Congressman Nick Rahall, today announced $338,845 in federal funding to acquire equipment for ongoing research at Marshall University.

“Investing in research is smart because it encourages innovation and new breakthroughs that could greatly benefit the health and well-being of our state and nation,” said Rockefeller.  “In order to conduct world-class research, technology must be accessible and this funding will allow Marshall University to get equipment they need to carry out an impressive research plan.  This will benefit Marshall students, as well as students at the University of Charleston.  I am glad to see the National Science Foundation continues to invest in West Virginia schools.”

"Investing in research and technology is the key to economic development and the future success of this great country," Manchin said. "This grant can leverage competition in the global market, educational opportunities for students across our state and nation and alternative energy solutions for generations to come. I am pleased to see Marshall's research efforts get well-deserved support."

“While few of us fully understand the ins and outs of an EPR spectrometer, we can all appreciate the capable hands and minds that will put this training and research tool to work at Marshall and the University of Charleston.  National Science Foundation investments continue to strengthen our State’s ability to enrich our students’ educational experiences and enhance our families’ health,” said Rahall.

The National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Division of Chemistry is awarding Marshall University a grant to obtain an electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometer to carry out research and educational projects under the direction of Dr. Derrick Kolling.  An EPR spectrometer uses a powerful magnet and a source of microwaves to observe materials with unpaired electrons, commonly known as free radicals. This project aims to improve alternative energy production and radioactive waste disposal systems, as well as develop of higher quality biosensors, magnets, and semiconductors.  The EPR spectrometer will add a new dimension to research and education at Marshall University, as well as the University of Charleston.

Senator Rockefeller has a strong record of securing funding for NSF and advocating for the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) program which is designed to make sure all states, including small and rural ones, have an opportunity to compete for NSF grants.

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