This Academic Research Facilities Modernization Program (ARFMP) award from the Research Facilities Office provides funds to Saint Michael's College for the renovation and repair of Cheray Science Hall which houses research and research training activities in the Departments of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and in the interdisciplinary majors in Biochemistry and Environmental Science. This building was constructed in 1949 and has not been renovated since that time. The ARFMP grant of $375,000 and $1,046,511 provided by the grantee as cost sharing will be used to modernize these research and research training facilities. This project will address the need to improve the current research infrastructure by reconfiguring the space and upgrading the electrical power and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These modifications will permit an increase in the continuity and quality, quantity, and diversity of the scientific research conducted as well as insure that current health and safety standards are met. This award contributes to the infrastructure of science by providing an improved environment for the conduct of research and for the training of undergraduate students in an institution where a large percentage of science majors go on to pursue graduate study.
