Utah Science Technology and Research Initiative
Overview The Utah Science Technology and Research initiative (USTAR) aims to strengthenUtah’s“knowledgeeconomy,”generating high-paying jobs and expanding the tax base for the state of Utah. To date, the state-funded investment initiative has bolstered the innovation infrastructure of Utah, increased the human capital devoted to research, and demonstrated success in technology and commercialization. Funded in March 2006 the initiative focuses on: • Recruiting top-level researchers to Utah’s two research university, the University of Utah (U of U) and Utah State University (USU) • Building two state-of-the art LEED Gold Certified interdisciplinary research and development facilities at the U of U and USU campuses (dedicated in 2010 and 2012) • Deploying Technology Outreach Innovation Program (TOIP) teams statewide to spur collaboration between higher education and business
Researchers Since 2006, the U of U and USU have attracted more than 50 highly regarded scientists and engineers working in the broadly defined fields of life sciences, nanotechnology, energy, biomedical and neuroscience innovations and digital media. These USTAR funded researchers have proven adept at raising millions of dollars in research funding, building world-class research teams comprised of undergraduate, graduate and post-doctoral students. They are forming new ventures based on their respective technologies bringing more than $400 million in new funding to the state. Research Highlights • USTAR U of U researcher, Rajesh Menon has developed a novel photovoltaic device that substantially increases the power harnessed by solar panels, achieving levels not currently possible. This technology can be applied to existing solar panel designs increasing power output as high as 42%.
Governor’s Office of Economic Development • 2013 Annual Report • www.business.utah.gov
U of U USTAR researcher Rajesh Menon has developed a photovoltaic device that substantially increases the power harnessed by solar panels.
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