On March 31, two prominent researchers from Stony Brook University, Lilianne Mujica-Parodi and Gábor Balázsi, participated in discussions at Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. The event was part of The American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE)’s Capitol Hill Day, focusing on advocating for federal support in the biomedical research sector.
Mujica-Parodi and Balázsi met with staff from the New York congressional delegation, highlighting the necessity for sustainable and increased federal funding in biomedical science. They emphasized that federal support is crucial for both academic and clinical advancements, and for maintaining and attracting skilled scientists in the U.S.
Mujica-Parodi, a neuroscience expert, remarked, "Investing in biomedical research is an investment in the future of healthcare, science, and our nation’s global leadership in innovation." She voiced concerns that without adequate funding, America's capability to retain and draw talented scientists might wane, affecting fields from neurobiology to cancer research.
The Capitol Hill meetings underscored the significance of federal funding to sustain and expand current biomedical research, especially against the backdrop of global competition from countries like China. "The U.S. remains a global leader in innovation, but this leadership is increasingly under threat," said Balázsi, a specialist in genetic biotechnology. He warned that without enhanced federal funding, the U.S. risks losing its edge in developing future biomedical technologies.
The SBU researchers focused on the pressing needs of institutions like Stony Brook University, where research in medicine is advancing. Contributions by Mujica-Parodi and Balázsi have potential implications for treating neurological disorders and cancer, but such breakthroughs require constant federal investment.
AIMBE’s Capitol Hill Day acts as a vital platform for advocacy, promoting direct engagement between researchers and policymakers to support biomedical progress through legislation. The dialogues held by SBU researchers with congressional staff stressed the continuation of these discussions and the essential role of federal funding in medical innovation.
Accompanying Mujica-Parodi and Balázsi, Stony Brook’s Office of Federal Relations engaged in the AIMBE Hill discussions. They continue to work with the New York congressional delegation in promoting Stony Brook University’s federal interests.