Federal grant provides boost to research at S.C. schools

A $6 million federal grant, designed to increase medical research at universities and colleges across this state, could lead to more research money, new businesses and better health for residents, according to scientists who will lead the effort.

First, however, the National Institutes of Health grant will create a network and collaboration among the academic centers, making this a first for NIH, said Dr. John Baynes, the University of South Carolina chemistry professor who will lead the new program.

South Carolina could do more biomedical research or research on human health and disease, Baynes said.

The Medical University of South Carolina and the College of Charleston join USC, Clemson, Furman and South Carolina State universities as the major players, but the grant will enable the state’s other 24 four-year schools to take part, Baynes said.

For instance, faculty from other schools could spend the summer at one of the six mentor universities, learn how to develop a research program, and then take it back to campus for faculty and students to pursue.

Gov. Jim Hodges described the award as a major step toward helping the universities and colleges here become more competitive for research funds, which would help attract more business and high-tech industry, as well as higher-paying jobs.

The Biomedical Research Infrastructure Networks program will enable the six schools to hire new faculty, involve students in new research, link established researchers with young scientists, purchase sophisticated research equipment and provide seminars for scientists.

Each school has made a financial commitment slightly higher than the federal money it will receive, Baynes said.