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Tonko Announces $1.24 Million Federal Science Grant for UAlbany

NSF award will fund research into factors that affect brain function and memory formation

AMSTERDAM, NY—Congressman Paul D. Tonko announced today that the National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded a grant to the University at Albany (UAlbany) totaling $1,240,000 for a project, led by Dr. Annalisa Scimemi, an Associate Professor in biological sciences at UAlbany, researching how various hormones affect cognition and functions in the brain that form memories.

“Our Capital Region continues to be a national leader in scientific research and development, a feat made possible by the exceptional work of our local researchers, professors and students,” Congressman Tonko said. “Pioneering projects like these promote opportunities to advance meaningful work that has the potential to make our world a better and brighter place. Congratulations to all at the University at Albany on this well-deserved project and to the National Science Foundation for their wise support of these visionary programs.”

“I am honored to receive this support from the National Science Foundation and to be able to pursue the goals of this project at the University at Albany, and with the support of NYCAP,” Dr. Scimemi said. “This project will allow us to answer a fundamental question in neuroscience: how are different types of memories formed and stored at different times of the day, and how are they modulated by molecular oscillations in neuronal and non-neuronal cells? The project has a strong public engagement component in collaboration with the Alzheimer's Association and promotes inclusion of under-represented minorities in the neuroscience field. Discovery, creativity and societal commitment will make sure this project has broad impacts on the many layers of our community in the Capital District.”

The NSF was established by Congress in 1950 as an independent federal agency and works to develop cutting edge technologies in physics, mathematics, cybersecurity, neuroscience, and STEM education. Currently, NSF is responsible for funding 25 percent of all federally backed research at national colleges and universities.

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