MONTGOMERY – Alabama researchers are preparing for a national audience wanting to learn more about scientific programs and educational endeavors in the state.

Later this month, Sherry Farwell, with the National Science Foundation, will be visiting three university campuses for tours and demonstrations on work being done through the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, known as EPSCoR.

Farwell, a recent appointee to head EPSCoR, will begin at the University of Alabama at Birmingham on Monday, Oct. 17, followed by trips to Tuskegee University and Auburn University on Tuesday, Oct. 18.

He has publicly stated that he endorses the concepts of broadening participation and of partnerships in expanding research. Local EPSCoR officials are planning on showing Farwell those practices are already in place among Alabama institutions.

Alabama EPSCoR Executive Director Keith McDowell spoke to the Congressional Committee on Science in Washington earlier this year, making the case that more money is needed to support this idea of a nationwide network.

“The ability is there to provide the fuel for technological growth for not only Alabama, but the entire United States as well,” McDowell, who also serves as vice president for research at The University of Alabama, told committee members. “The funding of the EPSCoR program at $120 million and the NASA EPSCoR program at $15 million will promote the development of nationwide research infrastructure and help guarantee that all states participate and benefit from a competitive research infrastructure.”

Farwell’s trip will give Alabama EPSCoR officials a firsthand opportunity to talk research, coupled with the need for more money to expand facilities, equipment and number of researchers needed for competitive clusters.

Alabama is a national leader with the EPSCoR program, attracting millions of dollars to the state through competitive grants. These financial resources are increasing Alabama’s research and development competitiveness, along with supporting economic growth in the state.