Montana Research Infrastructure Enhancement Program (II)

The 1998 EPSCoR grant marks a strategic investment in Montana’s scientific future by bolstering the research foundations of Montana State University and The University of Montana. By recruiting up to 18 high-caliber researchers in the critical fields of materials science, environmental sciences, and structural/functional biology, the state is poised to significantly increase its competitive edge. This initiative extends beyond faculty recruitment, expanding opportunities for 30 new graduate students and increasing undergraduate participation in hands-on research.

To ensure a modern and robust scientific environment, the project will upgrade Montana’s physical infrastructure with state-of-the-art equipment while launching faculty development programs and initiatives designed to strengthen local businesses. Success will be measured through tangible milestones, including increased federal grant funding from the NSF and NIH, heightened SBIR activity, and more vibrant partnerships between universities and the private sector. Ultimately, this program aims to foster a sustainable culture of innovation that drives both academic excellence and statewide economic growth.