Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $70,294 in federal dollars to help give students and teachers in the Capital Region hands-on training and experience in National Institutes of Health (NIH) laboratories. These federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services are part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which Senators Schumer and Gillibrand helped pass earlier this year.
“Federal funding for medical research and training is needed now more than ever,” said Schumer. “In these difficult economic times, it is critical that we continue to invest in cutting-edge medical research to push the boundaries of medicine and promote long-term economic growth. I will continue to fight for federal funds that will advance the medical training and research opportunities in the Capital Region.”
“It is critical that we invest in the life-saving research and personnel training at our world class medical facilities in the Capital Region,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Federal funding for these cutting edge research and training programs will help with medical diagnosis and treatment while promoting economic growth in the Capital Region. During these tough economic times, I will continue to work with Senator Schumer to ensure that New York receives its fair share of federal dollars and improved healthcare initiatives.”
The following federal investments for Capital Region institutions will give students and teachers in the area hands-on training and research experience in NIH-funded laboratories:
· $37,352 for Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute;
· $17,242 for Ordway Research Institute; and
· $15,700 for Albany Medical College.
The federal investments for the Capital Region are part of a broad $33 million investment nationwide to put nearly 4,000 students and teachers in NIH-funded laboratories in hopes of reaching breakthroughs to improve lives across the country.
Senators Schumer and Gillibrand are strong supporters of President Obama’s economic plan. The investment will help create or save more than 200,000 jobs in New York, while laying the foundation for future economic growth with critical investments in health care technology and research, education, infrastructure and renewable energy.