Lindley The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences shares with its sister campus, the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, a major responsibility for life sciences and university-based biotechnology research and development performed for the state of Arkansas. Built in 1957, the Shorey Building, a nine story structure, recently housed all the basic science departments and most of the research laboratories and support facilities. The research space is sub-standard for many aspects of modern cellular and molecular neurobiology, in spite of the fact that they represent essentially the only significant university-based capacity in the state for neurobiology research. Certain core facilities requisite to modern cellular molecular neurobiology, such as adequate darkrooms, tissue culture capabilities and space to house large equipment, are not available. Inadequate infrastructure is a hindrance for the application of contemporary cellular and molecular biology and biophysics to neurobiological problems. The laboratories are a critical success factor for continued development of Arkansas efforts in biotechnology. They also provide research training opportunities for graduate, undergraduate and high school students. ARI funds will be used to support various renovations including: asbestos abatement, upgrading HVAC and electrical power systems, installing new benches and lab islands, modernizing cell and tissue culture and darkroom facilities, and providing a central autoclave and glassware washing facility. Provisions for computer network access and data analysis space will also be included. Once completed, the basic biological research conducted in the renovated facilities will build on and be synergistic with the research program launched by the NSF EPSCoR Arkansas Neurobiology Center. Modernized facilities will enhance the research programs of investigators who contribute to biotechnology linkages and improved scientific training for undergraduates in partn ership with Arkansas institutions, including the historically black colleges, Philander Smith College and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
