Delaware Research Infrastructure Improvement Program

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0447610WeirThe Delaware EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement Grant (RII) encompasses research, outreach, ethics and public policy and economic development in the area of Complex Environmental Systems and Ecosystem Health. The project will: integrate research and education; increase participation of women and underrepresented groups and underserved rural populations in STEM disciplines; focus on undergraduate research and career opportunities; and, catalyze STEM career interest in middle school and faculty development.The project is a partnership with the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, Wesley College, Delaware Technical and Community College, state government and the private sector. The work at the research institutions will synergize capability in plant, soil, marine sciences, bio-nanotechnology and environmental ecology. Delaware Technical Community College will be engaged in developing a new biotechnology degree program to serve the southern section of the state. All institutions will be involved in outreach and mentoring activities to K-12, undergraduate, and graduate students and faculty. The institutions and research focus areas will be aided by core instrumentation centers in the state and include support for a statewide Ethics and Public Policy component. The Ethics and Public Policy component will serve as a forum to spread knowledge and create understanding of the key ethical and policy issues that are developing around the rapid advances in the physical and biological sciences. The EPSCoR RII is a critical part of Delaware's strategy to develop the life sciences as a major economic sector in the state.