Sunday, October 28, 2012

Research Projects Receive Grants

The NY Cap Research Alliance was established in 2012 by the Albany Medical Center, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the University of Albany as part of New York Governor Cuomo’s Regional Council initiative. The Alliance just recently announced ten new awards totaling $745,000 to foster biomedical research in New York State.

The goal for the Alliance is to spur economic growth, formalize existing collaboration, and foster additional cooperation among numerous biomedical research entities located in New York’s Capital Region. The plan is to identify opportunities for the development of products as a result of the research, secure seed funding for their commercialization, and encourage the development of businesses producing biomedical devices.

Thirty three applications for funding were received that focused on pressing health challenges such as Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, other neurodegenerative diseases, and regenerative medicine.

Some of the ten projects being funded include:

·        $80,000 to develop a sensor for the early detection of Alzheimer’s Disease
·        $75,000 to develop smart bandages for healing wounds
·        $75,000 to develop a novel implantable sensor for use in orthopedics and for neurosurgery
·        $50,000 to develop sensors to differentiate forms of prostate cancer

“Biomedical research targets the cures for disease. Breakthroughs can have tremendous human and economic impact locally, nationally, and globally,” said Dr. Jackson, who serves as the Co-Chair of the Capital Region Economic Development Council. “By combining our strengths, focusing our resources, and leveraging our assets, the NY Cap Research Alliance will accelerate the potential for scientific discoveries and innovations in health care and expedite their pathway into the marketplace.”

For more information, go http://regionalcouncils.ny.gov/print/841.