Search Results

A new state-of-the-art laboratory and collaboration space in the Engineering Center will connect quantum researchers across campus with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) researchers and local industry around quantum communications, sensing and computing. The effort is part of the Quantum Engineering Initiative in the College of Engineering and Applied Science and the campuswide CUbit Quantum Initiative to support research into an area of distinctive strength for CU Boulder and an increasingly important field globally, said Massimo Ruzzene, CU Boulder vice chancellor for research and innovation and dean of the institutes. “Opening a dedicated space for this research is the result of a lot of hard work by many people on campus over the last five years,” he said. “This new lab will greatly extend the university’s quantum footprint and expand on a successful partnership between the university and NIST that is now over 60 years old.” The new lab space will host three collaborative projects starting this summer: The first—Quantum Links—will establish a high-quality quantum network between the Quantum Engineering Initiative Lab space and NIST. This will be the first link of a larger Boulder Quantum Network. The research will be essential for advancing quantum communications, as well as fundamental science tests of quantum mechanics metrology. Shared detector infrastructure will begin immediately for this project. Another project deals with the development of ultra-precise optical clocks for use outside of a controlled lab space. These devices are the most accurate measurement tools ever made. However, their use on Earth and in space is severely restricted by their complexity and current state of engineering. Bringing the technology out of the lab would benefit communications networks and could be used for deep space navigation, among other applications. The final project will explore quantum microwave devices, which have shown great potential for quantum information processing. Work on this project will enable semi- and superconducting quantum computing. This work will be done with researchers in the Department of Electrical, Computer and Energy Engineering, and seeks to develop novel mechanical sensors and novel qubits. Read more details>>>

On May 18 we joined the celebration with 150+ people at Colorado State Unversity to recognize the profound impact of Dr. Alan Rudolph across realms of science, careers of his colleagues and mentees and programs that have and will continue to shape the best outcomes for research, society and the world. Dr. Rudolph is leaving CSU in July, and we wnat to give all of CO-LABS members and friends a glimpse into his amazing path that we're fotunate included a leadership role with us. Dr. Alan Rudolph: Revolutionizing Research and Innovation at Colorado State University CO-LABS is grateful to recognize the importance and impacts of Dr. Alan Rudolph, an exceptional leader and visionary, who has made an indelible mark on Colorado State University (CSU) during his tenure as the Vice President for Research. With his entrepreneurial spirit and relentless dedication, Rudolph transformed the Office of the Vice President for Research into a hub of interdisciplinary collaboration and groundbreaking research. Under his guidance, CSU's research enterprise has flourished, achieving unprecedented growth and national recognition. During Rudolph's tenure, CSU experienced remarkable expansion in research activities and funding. The university's total sponsored expenditures soared to $456.9 million, representing a 46% increase over the course of Rudolph's leadership. This remarkable growth has placed CSU among the top-tier research universities in the United States. Rudolph's strategic vision and commitment to interdisciplinary research paved the way for the establishment of numerous centers and institutes, including the Center for Healthy Aging, One Health Institute, and Data Science Research Institute. These collaborative initiatives have enhanced CSU's research capabilities and positioned the university at the forefront of scientific innovation. Dr. Rudolph's impact extended far beyond the boundaries of CSU. Recognizing the significance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing, he fostered partnerships with business, government, academia, and foundations across the nation. Through these collaborations, CSU researchers have expanded their reach to dozens of countries worldwide, creating a global network of scientific inquiry. Furthermore, his commitment to the university's land-grant mission led to the establishment of the Coalition for Epi Response, Engagement, and Science. This consortium of land-grant universities focused on safeguarding U.S. agriculture and food systems from disease threats, exemplifying his dedication to community-focused research. Perhaps most profoundly, under Dr. Rudolph's leadership, CSU played a pivotal role in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. The Office of the Vice President for Research spearheaded various programs aimed at protecting public health and supporting students during these challenging times. CSU researchers developed innovative testing methods, including the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in sewer samples and widespread testing for nursing facility staff. These efforts propelled CSU to the forefront of national recognition for its contributions to combating the coronavirus crisis. Dr. Rudolph's commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation extended to the establishment of new initiatives and research centers. The Institute for Research in the Social Sciences, Drone Core Research Center, Center for Healthy Aging, One Health Institute, and Data Sciences Research Institute are just a few examples of his visionary contributions. Through these initiatives, Rudolph encouraged the study of team formation and dynamics, fostering a collaborative research environment that accelerated scientific breakthroughs. Moreover, Rudolph recognized the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry. The partnership between CSU and Zoetis, a leading animal health company, resulted in the establishment of a research lab on the CSU Foothills Campus. This collaboration has facilitated innovative advancements in livestock animal health, exemplifying his commitment to driving real- world impact through research. Dr. Rudolph's dedication to national security and defense-related programs has also been instrumental. By launching the Office of Defense Engagement, Rudolph facilitated collaborations between CSU, technology companies, and other universities to address cybersecurity threats. CSU hosted the prestigious DARPA Forward conference, which attracted national security experts, researchers, and innovators seeking innovative solutions to protect the nation. At CO-LABS, Dr. Rudolph was a Board Director starting in 2014 and led the organization as Board Chair for 3 years, including during the years of the COVID pandemic. His vision for expanding CO-LABS’ engagement with federal elected officials and convening scientific agency leadership to leverage research across a spectrum of data and research regimens helped grow CO-LABS as the most credible hub of federal research connections among scientists, academics, economic development experts and civic leaders across Colorado. We are indebted to his thoughtful guidance, before, through and now after the pandemic as CO-LABS moves into a new stage of nurturing connections between labs and innovative industries and entrepreneurs turning discoveries into companies and into solutions to the world’s biggest challenges. As Dr. Rudolph prepares to leave CSU in July 2023, his departure marks a significant transition for the university's research enterprise. His visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, and relentless pursuit of scientific excellence have transformed CSU into a research powerhouse. The impact of his tenure will continue to shape the future of research and innovation at CSU for years to come. Cheers with appreciation to Dr. Alan Rudolph! We were happy to join the huge celebration of Dr. Rudolph at Colorado State University on May 18 and hear stories of how he shaped the paths of so many colleagues; his love of tardigrades, and how much he inspired the success of others. Sincerely, on behalf of the entire CO-LABS Board of Directors Chris McKay, Board Chair Dan Powers, Executive Director, CO-LABS ALSO: You can view and leave a video or audio comment to Alan on the virtual board created by CSU. Lots of wonderful comments there!

Dr. Alan Rudolph has been CO-LABS' visionary and impactful Board President for the last four years and with a bittersweet congratulations and thank you we share this invitiation from the Colorado State University: Please join us virtually or in person for a farewell celebration for Colorado State University’s Vice President for Research, Alan Rudolph on May 18. He finishes his tenure at the university on July 1. May 18, 4-6:30 p.m. (MT) Translational Medicine Institute Grand Event Hall 2350 Gillette Drive Fort Collins, CO 80523 If you cannot attend in person, the speaking portion of the event will be available virtually via Zoom. Please RSVP for in-person or virtual attendance at your earliest convenience. Space is limited. Contact Ande Wahl if you require further information. To share your well-wishes and congratulations with Alan record a video or write your message here.

Econ%20Impact%20graphic%205_edited Econ%20Impact%20graphic%201_edited Econ%20Impact%20graphic%204_edited Econ%20Impact%20graphic%205_edited 1/4 Federally-Funded Laboratories and Institutions Have a $2.6 Billion Annual Impact in Colorado ​ University of Colorado - Boulder economic impact study reveals dynamic research nurturing Colorado’s innovation economy Federally funded research facilities in Colorado contributed an estimated $2.6 billion to the state’s economy in 2016 and supported more than 17,600 jobs, according to a report from the University of Colorado Boulder Leeds School of Business. ​ The report—Economic and Fiscal Impacts of Federally Funded Research Facilities in Colorado, FY2013-FY2015—also shows how 33 federally funded laboratories help make Colorado a national center for research and innovation. "Colorado's federally funded research labs fuel our innovation economy,” said Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper. “Their impact is far reaching, attributing to Colorado's high-quality talent pool and expanding into our startups and private industry. These labs help to ensure our state's future progress.” This is the fourth economic impact report produced by the Leeds School of Business for CO-LABS, previous CO-LABS and Leeds economic impact studies were released in 2013, 2011 and 2008. ​ CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL REPORT (PDF download) ​ For the latest report, the Leeds Schools’ Brian Lewandowski surveyed Colorado’s 33 federally funded research laboratories, from the Crops Research Laboratory in Fort Collins to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in Boulder and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden. He collected detailed data on employees’ educational attainment, organizational budgets, spinoff companies, technology transfer and more. ​ The study also summarized the federal science funding landscape, drawing from national reports to highlight Colorado’s top-tier ranking among states in funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce (second), Department of Interior (second), NASA (third), Environmental Protection Agency (fifth) and National Science Foundation (sixth). ​ Among the findings: ● The estimated economic impact of federally funded laboratories in Colorado in fiscal year 2015 was $2.6 billion; it was $2.5 billion in fiscal years 2013 and 2014. ● Colorado’s federally funded labs directly employed nearly 7,800 people in FY 2015, and supported an additional 9,800 jobs through the multiplier effect (people employed by instrument makers, utility companies, etc.). ● In the latest year available, 2014, Colorado’s scientists and research groups received funding support from many agencies, making the state one of the top in research funding from departments such as Commerce and Interior, and agencies such as NASA and the National Science Foundation. ● Colorado's federally funded scientists live in 30 of the state’s 64 counties, with the highest number in Boulder, Larimer and Jefferson counties. ● Ten labs reported active commercialization programs, from tech transfer and licensed technology to spin-off companies and public-private partnerships with shared space or equipment. Colorado’s federal research facilities conduct wide-ranging basic and applied research that results in scientific and commercializable research advancements,” said Brian Lewandowski, associate director of CU Boulder’s Business Research Division. “Beyond the research, these facilities play an important economic function in the Colorado economy, including employing a body of highly educated researchers and through the purchasing of goods and services within the Colorado economy.” A critical finding in the report is that federal investments in this state support a strong scientific and technical workforce. Of those employed in federal laboratories, 55 percent have master’s or doctoral degrees, compared with 15 percent statewide; and Colorado ranks fourth among states for the percentage of the workforce engaged in science and engineering jobs. ​ That expertise has a strong effect on the state’s powerful innovation economy. Highly educated and trained workers leave federal employment to form spinoff companies and others develop technologies based on discoveries and inventions coming out of the research laboratories. Many of the state’s federally funded research laboratories work within powerful partnerships that include industry and academia. ​ “We found that the labs add value in dollars, jobs and beyond,” added Brian Payer, CO-LABS Board Chair and Program Manager of Strategic Operations for Sphera. “We learned about tremendous synergy between the laboratories, businesses and the community. The labs spur innovation through spin out companies, technology licensing, cooperative work agreements, and access for formal and informal conversations with world-class experts across an incredible breadth of disciplines. In addition, we learned that people want to live here, making it easier for the labs to recruit top-notch talent to the state.” ​ Contacts: ● Dan Powers, Executive Director, CO-LABS, 720-389-0455 dan@co-labs.org ● Brian Lewandowski, Associate Director, Business Research Division, Leeds School of Business, University of Colorado Boulder, 303-492-3307 Brian.Lewandowski@colorado.edu ● Elizabeth Lock, CU Boulder Strategic Relations, 303-492-3117 elizabeth.lock@colorado.edu 2017 Economic Impact Report PDF 2013 Economic Impact Report PDF 2011 Economic Impact Report PDF 2008 Economic Impact Report PDF

Why CO-LABS? CO-LABS champions the brilliant scientific discoveries of Colorado's 30+ federally-funded research labs and institutes. ​ Topics shaping the CO_LABS network and the manifestation of science for society ​ Artificial intelligence and big data/surveillance tech - algorithms will know us better than we know ourselves = health prompts, relevant ads, insight to psychological attributes ​ Threat reports Water shortage borne of climate change Pace of IoT, robotics automation, AI = rise of "useless" class of people. Biosecurity - GMOs vs lab grown meat 2 global internets (5G; censorship, truth/facts/info) People pay to be invisible/limit info ​ ​ TRUTH = Need for science ​ The nature of work in federal labs - comparing 2000 with 2020; 2030 predictions ask lab Directors ​ Report on top industries/jobs and federal lab connections ​ Ensuring the funding of scientific research and discovery in Colorado because of our activities and advocacy. ​ Ensuring the value of research is recognized and scientific discoveries continue to make our world a better place ​ ​ ​ ​ Mission CO-LABS educates the public, businesses, educational organizations, and government entities about the value of the federally funded laboratories, creates connections between these sectors, and supports retention and expansion of Colorado's scientific resources. Vision Advancing Colorado's global competitiveness through an interactive, widely supported community of federally funded laboratories, universities, and business. The CO-LABS consortium includes Colorado federal research laboratories, research universities, state and local governments, economic development organizations, private businesses and nonprofit organizations. It conducts economic analysis, encourages technology collaboration and provides education programming. Colorado’s research laboratories are often called upon to solve state, national, and global issues. CO-LABS plays an important role in bringing together the collective research and development expertise from Colorado. CO-LABS Activities We collect and analyze data to understand the scientific and economic value of federally-funded research labs in Colorado. According to a study completed in 2016 by the CU-Boulder Leeds School of Business for CO-LABS, federal labs in Colorado together with their affiliates contributed $2.6 billion to the state economy in fiscal years 2014-2015 and accounted for more than 17,000 direct and indirect jobs. READ MORE>>> We inform the public about what the federal labs do and their scientific and economic value to Colorado. We promote the work of those federal research labs in COlorado and provide information about technology transfer, testing facilities and scientific specializations. Read what people say about our tours>>> Facilitates interactions between Colorado’s federal labs, universities, and its businesses to enhance the potential for new partnerships, technology transfer, and job creation. See our lab tour schedule>>> We Host the annual Governor’s High-Impact Research Awards celebration to recognize the global research impact of Colorado-based federal scientists. See the most recent winners>>> ​ Established in 2007, CO-LABS is a tax exempt 501c3 that relies on donations from its partners and the public to fund its activities. To find out more about becoming a CO-LABS partner contact Executive Director Dan Powers at 720-389-0455 or dan@co-labs.org . ​ ​

Unleashing American Innovation Symposium The United States invests about $150 billion each year on federal R&D, but are the American taxpayers reaping the full benefit of that investment? ​ The Unleashing American Innovation Symposium was about highlighting the nation’s journey to a new level of innovation performance. This path will seek the best models and approaches for converting the results of federally funded R&D and intellectual property into new companies and jobs as well as entirely new industries that bring new products, technologies and better healthcare to the American people. The symposium also explored barriers that limit industry’s access to federal R&D and ways to maximize the economic, security and societal benefits to the nation. Check out more details>>>> How Federal Laboratories Spur Innovation ​ In addition to helping the public understand how science can improve daily lives, federal laboratories play an increasingly important role nationally in promoting regional growth by partnering with entrepreneurs to create new jobs, products, and companies. ​ Several of the state’s laboratories including JILA, NCAR, and the Energy Department’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) work collaboratively with industry researchers and support startup companies by offering access to their scientists and facilities. For example, through its annual Industry Growth Forums, NREL has provided an opportunity for 30 cleantech startup companies to present their business cases to an expert panel of investors and energy executives. To date, participating companies have raised more than $4 billion in growth financing. ​ Work conducted in Colorado’s federally funded research laboratories is also critical to protecting lives and property. A NOAA research group in Boulder, for example, works on weather modeling innovations that improve forecasting, especially for high-impact storms. These innovations give emergency managers and others better information, earlier. That team developed the HRRR, or High-Resolution Rapid Refresh model, now used in the 122 National Weather Service offices around the country. ​​ “NOAA’s research efforts have been crucial to improving the forecasts of hazardous aviation weather, which impacts the safety and the efficiency of the National Airspace System," said the Federal Aviation Administration's Steve Abelman. The FAA has long supported NOAA's weather research efforts, and the outcomes have included validation of turbulence, in-flight icing and thunderstorm forecasts now used operationally in the national airspace, according to Abelman. "Long-term research has led to new and improved weather prediction models such as the High Resolution Rapid Refresh, which is integrated into FAA decision-making every day," he said. The collective impact of the labs’ research also ripples out to every state in the country,” said Dan Powers, executive director of CO-LABS. “Ranging from partnership agreements to licensing of technology to outright free access to the research from these taxpayer-funded labs, thousands of companies throughout the United States representing hundreds of thousands of jobs utilize this science in ways that make us healthier, safer, more sustainable and global leaders in innovation.” US Dept of cOmmerce Office of Space Commerce resources for Space Entrepreneurs ​ https://www.space.commerce.gov/links/resources-for-space-entrepreneurs/ By law, each federal agency involved in research is required to have an Office of Research and Technology Applications, abbreviated ORTA. This office is intended to serve as an intermediary between the Laboratory and those outside such as universities, private companies and nonprofit entrepreneurial support agencies. Some of the tools available for “outsiders” to collaborate with federal Labs are summarized below: Small Business Innovation Research awards (SBIR) This is a competitive program designed to encourage the commercialization of products and processes developed by small businesses through grants of federal funds. Small Business Technology Transfer program (STTR) is similar to SBIR except it only applied to the departments of Defense, Energy, Health and Human Services, NASA and the National Science Foundation and award applicants are partnerships of small businesses and universities. Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) These agreements are used when a Lab and a private company share mutual research interests. They spell out the details of the relationship, cost sharing, and protection of the resulting discoveries or products. Intellectual Property (IP) The labs can patent technology developed by their scientists and license inventions to companies that will commercialize them. If the lab collaborates with an outside partner on an invention, intellectual property issues are typically negotiated and formalized in advance. Personnel Exchanges It is possible for Laboratory scientists to be deployed on a short term basis to private sector companies and universities, or for company employees and university personnel to be deployed to a Lab to enhance the knowledge, expertise and research of both parties. This is discretionary with each Lab and paid for by the outside party. Technical Assistance (Work for Others) agreements allows a Laboratory to advise US companies or other researchers on problems for which the Lab has special expertise or equipment. There may be a fee and a formal agreement if the assistance requires more than an incidental amount of time. Use of Facilities Outside entities such as universities, technology incubators, private companies and individual inventors may be able to use scientific equipment, specialized rooms, testing centers or other unique experimental property of the Labs. This use is at the discretion of the Lab with costs paid by the user. ​ Federal Laboratory Consortium website FLC Technology Locator helps match user technical requests for expertise and facilities with appropriate federal laboratory capabilities. Their website also has a good list of Resources about technology transfer. National Technical Information Service website This federal agency collects and disseminates scientific and technical information generated by federally funded research. Technology Transfer Tactics website Robert Byrd National Technology Transfer Center website This organization offers information and assistance about federal technologies. ​ ​