image: The MDI Biological Laboratory has announced the formation of the Morris Scientific Discovery Fund, which will provide a total of up to $250,000 per year for eligible research programs. The goal of the fund is to ensure the continued development of the MDI Biological Laboratory faculty by providing short-term, pilot project support for research programs that demonstrate a likelihood of successfully competing for federal funding. The fund is supported by Martha and Wistar Morris of Villanova, Pa., and Northeast Harbor, Maine, who are long-time benefactors of the MDI Biological Laboratory. Their support at critical points in the institution's development has contributed significantly to its transformation into a global leader in the fields of regenerative biology and aging. view more
Credit: MDI Biological Laboratory
BAR HARBOR, MAINE -- The MDI Biological Laboratory has announced the formation of the Morris Scientific Discovery Fund, which will provide a total of up to $250,000 per year for eligible research programs.
The goal of the fund is to ensure the continued development of the MDI Biological Laboratory faculty by providing short-term, pilot project support for research programs that demonstrate a likelihood of successfully competing for federal funding.
The fund is supported by Martha and Wistar Morris of Villanova, Pa., and Northeast Harbor, Maine, who are long-time benefactors of the MDI Biological Laboratory. Their support at critical points in the institution's development has contributed significantly to its transformation into a global leader in the fields of regenerative biology and aging.
"Martha and I are pleased to support the outstanding scientists at the MDI Biological Laboratory by providing the seed monies that will help move their pioneering research forward," Wistar Morris said.
"The key word in the name of this fund is 'discovery'," said faculty member Voot Yin, Ph.D. "This gift is enormously important in providing the pilot project funding that gives faculty the latitude to take the intellectual risks that lead to new discoveries."
"We are deeply grateful to their Morrises for their support," added Hermann Haller, M.D., president of the MDI Biological Laboratory. "Our research approach is yielding significant contributions to human health that would not have been possible without the freedom to pursue new ideas offered by the financial support of our generous donors."
The Morris Scientific Discovery Fund will provide up to $75,000 per year to professor-track faculty with a history of independent, extramural funding who meet the eligibility requirements.
The Morris fund is the most recent chapter in an extensive history of giving that was recognized in 2008 when the MDI Biological Laboratory named its first major laboratory building after the Morrises in honor of their commitment to the institution and to its research mission of extending healthy lifespan and improving quality of life.
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About the MDI Biological Laboratory
We are pioneering new approaches to regenerative medicine focused on developing drugs that slow age-related degenerative diseases and activate our natural ability to heal. Our unique approach has identified potential therapies that could revolutionize the treatment of heart disease, muscular dystrophy and more. Through the Maine Center for Biomedical Innovation we are preparing students for 21st century careers and equipping entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills and resources needed to turn discoveries into applications that improve human health and well-being. For more information, please visit mdibl.org.