U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced more than $1.6 million in federal National Science Foundation (NSF) funds for the University of Rochester. This funding will be used to fund two separate, innovative projects at the university. Schumer and Gillibrand said $1,151,534.00 of this funding will allow researchers to identify ways to improve education and training for students in the geosciences, a STEM discipline that is of growing importance when it comes to issues like climate change, energy resources and predicting earthquake activity. This project will look at ways to improve training for students so that they may be able to more efficiently detect, identify and interpret geologic data and processes. Second, the University of Rochester will receive $475,074.00 in NSF funds to study ways to prevent and detect malware that is used to hijack computer operating systems in order to steal information and corrupt user data.
“This is a game-changer for the University of Rochester,” said Senator Schumer. “With these grants, Rochester will be able to launch two groundbreaking, new projects looking at ways to improve STEM student training as well as protect against and prevent cyber threats. Rochester has a rich history in scientific research and advancement, and this funding is a tremendous step forward for the university and its world-renowned research.”
“New York is home to cutting edge research institutions like the University of Rochester that are poised to lead in the new high-tech economy,” said Senator Gillibrand. “When we invest in new research, we can develop innovations and technology that can spark new jobs and attract new businesses to Rochester, and strengthen our economy for years to come. With these funds provided by the National Science Foundation, we have the opportunity to advance research to protect ourselves against cyber threats and support the development of the next generation of scientists.”
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