UW-Madison prides itself on numerous aspects that allow it to stand out amongst other major universities, such as the revolutionary research it conducts or its reputation for competitive sports programs. Unfortunately, the latter mention tends to outdo the first in terms of campus notoriety.
One of the major neglected achievements I'm referring to is the construction project currently taking place on the south side of our campus for The Wisconsin Institutes for Discovery (WID) and the Morgridge Institute for Research. Both are currently awaiting the completion of a brand new $150 million facility in 2010. These institutes will continue to serve as beacons for the advancement of our species.
This venture is unbelievably noteworthy for several reasons. The institute is being funded by a record $50 million gift from former alumni John and Tashia Morgridge, and its goal of combining the benefits and financial backing of a private non-profit company (the Morgridge Institute) with the resources and progressive minds of a public university (UW-Madison) is unheard of. This one-of-a-kind collaborative effort will unite leading researchers in the fields of biology, computer science, and bioengineering.
This research will draw from three different fields to create a unique working experience that will accelerate progress in the development of new health technologies. UW-Madison professor John A. Thomson has been named to the multidisciplinary scientific leadership team at the Morgridge Institute.
As one of the world's leading stem-cell researchers, his presence will add to the progressive orientation of the joint venture. The opportunities at the Morgridge Institute come at a remarkable time for the course of my research, as well as for the advancement of science,"" Thomson said in a statement.
Additionally, the hiring of world-renowned professor Sangtae Kim, formerly of Purdue University, will create an environment where scientific progress will be translated into tangible public benefits at the quickest pace possible. ""Throughout his years in academia and industry, Sang has proven himself as a bold thinker and exceptional leader who embraces interdisciplinary research,' Morgridge chair Carl Gulbrandsen said. ""This is precisely what's needed as we work to set the stage for world class collaboration and innovation at the Morgridge Institute.""
But how many students actually knew about any of this in detail?
There are few, if any, legitimate reasons to neglect these achievements any further. Stem-cell research has controversially become a political hot-topic in recent years, with questions regarding the morality of research that involves embryonic stem cells. Furthermore, the Bush administration has vetoed every bill to make it through Congress that would lift restrictions for federal funding of this branch of research.
Yet Thomson's recent breakthrough could allow scientists to sidestep these moral concerns through the isolation of stem cells in human skin cells. It is invigorating to know that these medical advancements will continue to take place at this university with the arrival of the WID and Morgridge Institute. It's time for the whole campus to share my enthusiasm.
This university is on the cusp of making huge strides as a research institution, and we as a student population remain relatively unaware or uneducated. Sure, we've read a few newspaper articles about Thomson and associate him with stem cells, but we lack the enthusiasm for this subject as we do for sports or party rankings. Years from now, the relevance of the revolutionary research being conducted will be much more important than whether or not we beat Michigan at the Big House.
It's nothing short of inspiring to be part of this university at a time when it seeks to improve the human condition, and the actions of this university serve as a great example to the student body. Even with the presence of moral scrutiny, the University of Wisconsin has taken a stand and affirmed their dedication to scientific progress above all else.
Years from now, when I look back upon my involvement at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I will be extremely proud of the many opportunities afforded to me, but mostly to have been affiliated with a movement that sought to improve the future of mankind. That in itself should be inspiration enough to wear Wisconsin red, and I urge everyone to take the same sense of pride in UW-Madison.
Tom Hart is a senior majoring in history and political science. Please send responses to opinion@dailycardinal.com.
