Phase II of the Science Initiative, if fully funded, will include renovations to the Wyoming Astronomical Observatory and upgrading to a 4.3-meter telescope. Rendering courtesy of m3 construction
With CIBR, UW aims to establish a center for research innovation in the core biological sciences where UW’s world-renowned faculty in botany, molecular biology and zoology can conduct research jointly with collaborators from chemistry and physics. Core facilities within CIBR will include state-of-the-art plant growth and staffed laboratory animal research facilities.
Such facilities rely heavily on exacting environmental controls, and a modern animal care facility further requires secure access to ensure proper quarantine, security and safety.
Current facilities are lacking in these areas, such as older greenhouses without the necessary climate-control sensitivities. “The new plant greenhouse facilities would be on the top of the new building,” Weinig says. “We have a lot of important producers in Wyoming, and statewide we can be better in plant biology. It’s very important from an agricultural perspective.” (See more about Weinig’s research on page 37.)
“In order for the university to be competitive in science—both research and teaching—and to benefit the state, the sciences needed to be improved,” Grieve says.
“Science in the 21st century is exploding—everything from molecular biology to space science,” he continues. “Every day, there’s something new. That’s all going to be harnessed by someone. New technologies and new businesses will evolve from those new discoveries.
“With this initiative, UW is going to be a magnet for in-state students to come to learn and grow in science, and they will develop businesses that can thrive without ever having to leave the state of Wyoming.”
“Anything that you’re capable of driving to the level of excellence—which is where this is headed—has great benefits for the students because they’re more employable,” Freudenthal agrees. “It also helps the faculty in that we not only retain good faculty but are able to attract other great faculty.”
“I’m just so impressed with the leadership of Gov. Mead and Gov. Freudenthal—that they, along with their colleagues in the Wyoming Legislature, had the vision to move this initiative forward. Other states in the nation should be so lucky,” Brewer says.
With centers of excellence that will attract top scientists from around the world and train students in state-of-the-art science and technology, the Science Initiative is truly transformational, setting UW on a path of success for decades to come.
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