April 23, 2009

Schumer, Gillibrand Announce $77,000 to Improve Medical Research At University of Rochester

Funds Will Support Research for Fatal Genetic Disorder

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $77,000 to upgrade and improve resources at the University of Rochester. The funds will help move forward on critical research and treatment to help improve the lives of all New Yorkers, and are part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which Senators Schumer and Gillibrand helped pass earlier this year.

"Investing in these institutions makes sense in both the short run and the long run," said Schumer.  "Immediately it will create jobs and advance Rochester's position at the cutting edge of the medical research, while in the long run it will allow our parents and grandparents to live longer, healthier lives."

"It is critical that we invest in the life-saving research at our world class facility in Rochester," said Senator Gillibrand. "Federal funding for this cutting edge research will help with medical diagnosis and treatment while promoting economic growth in Rochester. During these tough economic times, I will continue to work with Senator Schumer to ensure that New York receives its fair share of federal dollars."

The University of Rochester will receive $77,000 to advance research into ataxia telangiectstia - a fatal genetic disorder.

Senators Schumer and Gillibrand are strong supporters of President Obama's economic plan. The investment will help create or save more than 200,000 jobs in New York, while laying the foundation of future economic growth with critical investments in health care technology, education, infrastructure and renewable energy.