"Investment in stem cell research is part of my vision to make New York a global leader in the New Economy, which is based on knowledge, innovation and technology," added the Governor. "The research we are undertaking right now will not only pay dividends for future generations but it will also provide jobs for New Yorkers still struggling in the midst of the economic crisis."

Governor Paterson has spearheaded the effort to commit $600 million over the next decade to advance stem cell science in New York State. Since the beginning of 2008, the State has allocated more than $165 million from the Empire State Stem Cell Board to support promising stem cell scientists through the development of new research, training, collaboration, and infrastructure.

The Stem Cell Board total includes two authorizations that the Governor recently announced. Final applications were due last month for $21.5 million in State funding for research to understand stem cell biology better and for improved efficiency in using existing stem cell lines. In December 2009, a $20.5 million Request for Proposal (RFP) aimed at recruiting and retaining exceptionally talented postdoctoral fellows and operating specialized stem cell research facilities will close.

"Providing New Yorkers with economic security is my number one priority," Governor Paterson said. "That means investing in long-term projects like stem cell research, biotechnology and clean energy. But it also means pouring the concrete for the lab where a scientist will discover the cure for diabetes and repaving the roads that will carry its beams and girders."

Source: Albert Einstein College of Medicine