Events Calendar

Department of Biomedical Engineering Graduate Seminar (BME:5010)

Milan P. Yager
Executive Director
American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering

Falling out of Love with Science

Introduction:   In the halls of Congress there is widespread agreement about the role of R&D in the success of the America’s most innovative corporations. However, too often lawmakers view government models of discovery, from NASA to public university research labs, as obsolete and costly superstructures in today’s .com marketplace.  What happened to the case for public exploration and discovery and why shouldn’t the private sector be trusted to find the cure for Grandma’s dementia or Johnny’s brain tumor?  Long-time Washington political insider, former lobbyist, Administration appointee, and AIMBE’s Executive Director, Milan Yager, will reveal the hidden truth about why America is falling out of love with science and biomedical discovery. 

Results and Discussion:   This presentation will highlight innovations and achievements made possible from past federal investments in basic research; such as the internet, cell phones, vaccines, and mapping the human genome.  Today, Congress seems less interested in past accomplishments as they assume new priorities to balance the budget, reduce government, and free the private sector to assume long-standing government responsibilities for innovation and discovery.  How did Congress make spending decisions to permit federal R&D spending to be flat for over a decade?  Why isn’t the public concerned about declining investments for medical research?  Discover practical steps for making a winning case for federal funding for medical and biological research.  Learn how engineers can successfully discuss their research with a Member of Congress.  Find out how to brand your research and the cure it supports in providing the pixie dust for returning the spark for America’s passion for research.  

Conclusions:  Arming yourself with the strategies for the political warfare in the case for innovation is more than just changing public policy; it can provide the key to changing the future landscape of new biomedical materials, products or procedures.  Engagement might just save your lab and future career.  Attendees will get insight into putting passion back into American’s love affairs with biomedical research and innovation.