 Governor Baldacci joined by Travis Roy and researchers announced
that he intends to increase R&D funding significantly for stem cell research. Photo by
Dan Cashman
"Stem cell research holds the
potential to lead to the most remarkable scientific advancements in medical history.
"We can’t risk the
federal government dragging us backward on innovation," said Governor Baldacci during
an announcement where he promised more funds for R&D in the next budget.
The state has invested almost $3.5 million
dollars in buildings and equipment at the Maine Medical Center Research Institute. That
built a foundation to allow doctors to compete for federal research dollars which brought
in an $11 million dollar stem cell grant.
"Here in Scarborough, stem cell
research is positioning us for breakthroughs in therapy for damaged kidneys, bones, blood
and blood vessels," said the governor.
The governor also renewed his call on
Congress to reverse the Bush administration’s ban on new lines of stem cells for
public health research. "During my time as governor and congressman, I have met so
many Mainers and their families who suffer from these conditions. I share with them the
hope that stem cell research will unlock cures. We must respect the important ethical
issues associated with all research, but we should not stay silent while some stand in the
way of ethical and vital scientific and medical research."
The scientific discoveries that could
happen in Maine due to the Biomedical Research Triangle created by the governor could save
lives, and will continue to grow Maine’s economy. The Triangle brings together
research institutes, businesses, and government to collaborate on research and
development. Working together new discoveries are being made.
The governor’s plan has created the
new graduate school at UMO. Students will be working alongside professionals in R&D,
all the while enjoying the opportunity of working within the Biomedical Triangle.
"During my administration to date, we
have invested more in research and development in the last four years than during any
other four year period in Maine’s history," said Governor Baldacci. "When
we talk about R&D, what we’re really talking about is high paying careers for
Maine people, including our young college graduates, for our future."
R & D Job Facts —
Research and Development in ME supports 11,000 jobs.
R&D between ’03 & ’05:
— Institutional personnel in R&D increased 67 percent.
— Faculty involved in R&D grew 66 percent.
— Institutional R&D space grew 40 percent.
The governor’s goal is to invest $1 billion in R&D by 2010.
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