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The new Agricultural Biotechnology Laboratory, introduced during an open house in June, stands as an appropriate monument to the College of Agriculture’s first century of service. It also serves as a fitting cornerstone for the next 100 years, providing the University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences the educational and research tools to shape the near and distant future. The three-story building will accommodate 101 faculty, staff, and students who will collectively explore new ways to improve our quality of life.

A number of projects, including a $9.6 million research grant from the National Institutes of Health, already are lined up and awaiting formal opening of the building. More than a decade in planning, the new laboratory is truly a center of collaboration; it brings $6.3 million from state sources, $6.2 million from federal sources, and a $6 million goal from industry and private contributions. It also will represent collaboration in function—research will be interdisciplinary by design, including microbiology, molecular biology and biochemistry, food & toxicology, and animal and veterinary science projects.

“At every (board) meeting we talk about collaboration, and this building is a great example of collaboration,” said Idaho State Board of Education President Karen McGee.

Dr. Larry Branen, vice president for extension and dean of the college, concluded the grand opening ceremony by announcing that the college he directs will undergo a transformation of its own during this centennial year. Known previously as the College of Agriculture, the university’s largest college was reintroduced as the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, reflecting an emphasis that extends beyond traditional agriculture.

“In the future we will continue to focus on what we do in agriculture, but the new name will show the college’s emphasis on consumer, family, and health sciences. The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences is a name we think better reflects what we are,” Branen said.
 

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