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Media Advisory 09-016
J. Craig Venter Is Keynote Speaker at National Science Foundation Conference
Venter offers "A Genomic View of Life" to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) researchers who work to broaden participation in science and engineering
June 4, 2009
J. Craig Venter--regarded as one of the leading scientists of the 21st century for his numerous contributions to genomic research--will be the keynote speaker at a meeting of National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded researchers who represent efforts to enhance the quality and excellence of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and research through broadening participation by underrepresented groups and institutions. The meeting runs from June 8-11, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, D.C., and Venter will be the luncheon speaker on Tuesday, June 9, at 12:15 p.m. Venter's presentation is titled, "A Genomic View of Life." It will include discussion of his latest work on the synthesizing of genes in the lab, and what a greater knowledge of genomics can mean for the world and its people. Venter will make his remarks in the Regency Ballroom, then be available afterwards in the Capitol Room for media interviews. The Division of Human Resource Development (HRD) within NSF's Directorate for Education and Human Resources is sponsoring the meeting, along with NSF's Directorate for Biological Sciences (BIO). Each year, HRD grantees gather in Washington, D.C., to discuss, present, network, leverage expertise and create connections to the many other research and education projects funded within the division. The Joint Annual Meeting (JAM) 09 will provide additional opportunities for partnerships and networking with BIO staff and grantees. A complete meeting agenda is available at http://www.nsf.gov/events/event_summ.jsp?cntn_id=112343&org=EHR. HRD serves as a focal point for NSF's agency-wide commitment to enhancing the quality and excellence of STEM education and research through broadening participation by underrepresented groups and institutions. The division's programs aim to increase the participation and advancement of underrepresented minorities and minority-serving institutions, women and girls, and persons with disabilities at every level of the science and engineering enterprise. Programs within HRD have a strong focus on partnerships and collaborations in order to maximize the preparation of a well-trained scientific and instructional workforce for the new millennium. Venter is founder and president of the J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI), a not-for-profit, research and support organization with more than 400 scientists and staff dedicated to human, microbial, plant and environmental genomic research, the exploration of social and ethical issues in genomics, and seeking alternative energy solutions through genomics. Additional information on Venter and his work is available at http://www.jcvi.org/ Media who would like to attend the meeting, hear Venter's remarks, or make an interview request should contact Bobbie Mixon, bmixon@nsf.gov, via email or by phone at 703-292-8070.
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Media Contacts
Bobbie Mixon, NSF (703) 292-8070 bmixon@nsf.gov
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency that supports fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering. In fiscal year (FY) 2009, its budget is $9.5 billion, which includes $3.0 billion provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. NSF funds reach all 50 states through grants to over 1,900 universities and institutions. Each year, NSF receives about 44,400 competitive requests for funding, and makes over 11,500 new funding awards. NSF also awards over $400 million in professional and service contracts yearly.
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