The Vision

The Vision:
Advances in molecular biology are leading to an explosion of new information that is redefining our understanding of life at the molecular level.  Based on these advances, the University of Colorado – Boulder (UCB) is taking bold steps to build the visionary, interdisciplinary educational and research environment needed to achieve breakthrough contributions in fields such as engineering human tissues, new pharmaceuticals based on RNA enzymes and aptamers, biorefining, and understanding the genetic basis for numerous diseases.  This synergistic linkage of the basic sciences, engineering, clinical practice, and industry in this exciting, high-impact field of systems biotechnology, will lead to the development of additional technologies, drugs, and techniques for improving human lives.  UCB is engaged in a $350 million campaign to support all aspects of this new Initiative, including a state-of-the-art research and education facility.  Although it is early in the campaign, significant gifts have been committed, including $20M from Dr. Marvin Caruthers, $7M from Dr. Larry Gold, $5M from Dr. William Freytag, $5M from John Sie, and many gifts at $1M and under.  The Governor’s Office of Economic Development has committed $5M to programs that will directly contribute to commercialization of technologies and creation of new companies.  The University has committed over $60M to support the construction of the new Systems Biotechnology Building.