News Releases

USM Attracting Research Dollars at Record Pace

August 2, 2004

A just-released report shows that the University of Southern Maine is attracting grant and contract awards that fund a range of research activities at a record pace. In the most recent year, USM attracted $48.4 million, a $6.8 million increase over the 2002-2003 total of $41.6 million.

USM attracted $6.5 million in 1990-1991, and $19.0 million in 1995-1996. Over the past two years alone, USM has experienced a $14.1 million, or 41.1 percent, increase. In fact, the university has been doubling activity every five years, according to Larry Waxler, director of the Office of Sponsored Programs. Waxler's office matches faculty and staff research interests with funding sponsors, aids in proposal preparation, and administers the projects.

Growth in funded research at USM is seen across the university. Every unit has shown increased activity, with the School of Applied Science, Engineering and Technology (ASET) and the College of Nursing and Health Professions receiving more awards in FY '04 than in the two prior years combined.

Waxler cites several reasons, including more research-oriented faculty and a greater emphasis on supporting teaching through research activities.

USM's Muskie School of Public Service continues to lead the way as the largest research unit in the state at $29 million. The Muskie School conducts applied social and health-related research throughout Maine and in more than 35 states.

Research and development funds provided by the Maine Legislature also have played a critical role in providing a better infrastructure to support research. From FY '01 through FY '04, R&D proposals submitted to funding agencies by USM researchers increased from $2.8 million to $15.7 million. Following the trend of increasing awards, the amount of actual dollars awarded grew from $0.3 million to $2.2 million over the same period.

There are some 360 research projects on campus this year, among them research on the effects of environmental particulates on humans, the benefits of pet therapy in long-term care facilities, the impact of invasive species on coastal ecosystems, and the integration of mental health and primary care services in rural Maine.

"Research reflects what should be at the core of any university, which is advancing knowledge," said USM President Richard L. Pattenaude. "In addition, research has a direct impact on the community, whether it's providing knowledge that enriches a community's cultural resources, contributing to economic development or helping individuals understand the world around them."

USM's complete annual report on research activities should be available by the end of August. For more information, visit www.usm.maine.edu/osp, or call USM's Office of Sponsored Programs at 780-4413.

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