This Week in Illinois Research

We're approaching the end of the academic year, and what a year it's been! We've celebrated anniversaries at Research Park (25), NCSA (40), and CSL (75). We marked exciting milestones, including the start of construction at IQMP, the launch of the first Illinois-led NASA mission, and the creation of the most detailed computer simulation yet of a living cell’s life cycle. We secured our university's first Sawyer Seminar grant from the Mellon Foundation. We shared fond farewells and welcomed new leadership across institutes (NCSA, IGB, and soon, HRI) and units (SPA and OPRS). We launched the iBiofoundry, scientific infrastructure that serves the nation's research community. We navigated challenging timelines—thanks to the incredibly hard work of our researchers, business offices and research admin staff across the university. (Between April 20 and May 1, we submitted a record 325 proposals—roughly the same number that we typically submit in one month!) And the list goes on and on!

I suspect that most of us are looking forward to breaks over the summer, even as our research ambitions keep us on the go. As you are preparing for the break—especially if you are traveling internationally—be sure you understand the implications of consulting, sponsored travel, outside employment, or other "outside activities" that could affect your future success in securing federal funds. And if you are working on research that could be subject to Export Controls while you're away from campus, the Office of Research Security can help you navigate federal laws and regulations.  

As you take advantage of opportunities to savor time over the summer, I’d like to express my gratitude to each and every one of you for a productive and impactful year of research and innovation at Illinois.

Sincerely,

Susan

P.S. As is our custom, "This Week in Illinois Research" will also transition to summer's slower pace. From now until the start of the semester in August, we'll maintain a twice-a-month publication schedule.