The West Virginia Research Trust Fund, also known as the “Bucks for Brains” program, was established in 2008 by the West Virginia Legislature to serve as a catalyst for improving scientific research infrastructure across the state.
Governor Joe Manchin III proposed the initiative in his January 2008 State of the State address, saying the investment would be necessary for West Virginia to stimulate world-class research and development and to reap the related benefits of high-tech, high-wage industries.
The trust fund program allows Marshall to double private gifts that support expansions to research faculty and infrastructure in key areas linked to economic development, health care and job growth.
The legislature initially appropriated $15 million in the trust fund for Marshall. Private gifts to the university are matched dollar-for-dollar by the fund.
With state and private funding, the Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research has been created to be one of the driving forces of the trust fund at Marshall. Applied research will be concentrated in two of Marshall’s areas of research strength—biomedical/biotechnology/bioenergy/bionanotechnology, and transportation technology/logistics.
For information about making a contribution to support research at Marshall, please contact Lance West by e-mail or by phone at 304.696.5407.
Related Links:
- Trust Fund Fact Sheet (West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission)
- Senate Bill 287
- Trust Fund Legislative Rule
- Marshall University Research Endowment Plan (September 2008)
