North Dakota
In 2007, North Dakota-based federal agencies and laboratories received a federal R&D investment of $116 million. They leveraged that investment via their technology transfer efforts to address societal needs, promote economic development and growth, and enhance U.S. competitiveness. From defense to life sciences to energy to agriculture, North Dakota-based federal agencies and labs are meeting the technology transfer mission envisioned by Congress.
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Federal Obligations for R&D in North Dakota, 2007 ($ thousands)
|
| Agency |
Total |
| All Agencies |
115,779 |
| Dept. of Agriculture |
34,046 |
| Dept. of Commerce |
1,686 |
| Dept. of Defense |
34,155 |
| Dept. of Energy |
16,835 |
| Dept. of Health and Human Services |
18,016 |
| Dept. of Interior |
3,429 |
| Dept. of Transportation |
906 |
| Environmental Protection Agency |
1,070 |
| NASA |
659 |
| National Science Foundation |
4,977 |
|
Source: NSF Science and Engineering Profiles
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Technology Transfer Success Stories
USDA-ARS Initiates Statewide Awareness Week
Cal Thorson is the first true Technical Information Specialist at the Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS). He was assigned to support the technology transfer of natural resources research at the Northern Great Plains Research Laboratory (NGPRL) in Mandan, N.D.
In his outreach service for USDA-ARS, Thorson has focused extensively on building positive and trusting relationships. He has assisted with more than 37 regional news broadcasts about the lab's activities, most of which were the lead news story.
In 2007, he initiated and organized all USDA agencies in North Dakota to develop "USDA Awareness Week." He then arranged for the governor of North Dakota to formally proclaim "USDA Week," which is slated to become an annual event. All group activities under Thorson's care have grown four- to fivefold. The annual Friends and Neighbors Day has grown to a major community event, with daylong campus exhibits and activities attracting over 800 guests.
Connect with North Dakota Laboratories
To learn more about, and connect with, North Dakota's FLC member laboratories, visit the North Dakota Laboratories web page. The web-based, searchable database displays laboratory profiles with information such as contacts, areas of expertise, laboratory history, website links, and more.
Contact an FLC Representative in Your Region
J. Susan Sprake
Los Alamos National Laboratory
Phone: 505-665-3613
Email:
sprake@lanl.gov
