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Ninth Annual Event Honored Colorado’s Top Scientists and Engineers for Projects Having a Significant Impact on Society ​ From the quantum realm of bioscience to the vanguard of atmospheric physics, from the technology advancing new possibilities in manufacturing to crucial new assessments of severe weather – CO-LABS was proud to convene more than 200 fellow champions of science at Colorado's premier scientific research recognition event on October 5, 2017. Researchers, entrepreneurs, business leaders, technology experts, STEM educators and government officials mingled and celebrated the exceptional and groundbreaking work of scientists and engineers from Colorado’s federally-funded research labs! ​ Presented By: ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ WINNER: JILA and Dr. Tom Perkins' New Twists in the Molecules of Life ​ ​ Principal Investigator: Thomas T. Perkins, Ph.D. Fellow of JILA & Adjunct Professor, Dept. of Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology, University of Colorado WINNER: Seeing More with a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST) ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Principal Investigators: Dr. Robert Keller, Leader, Nanoscale Reliability Group, NIST Dr. Roy Geiss, Analytical Specialist TEM/SEM, Colorado State University Dr. Katherine Rice, Applications Scientist, CAMECA WINNER: GPS Reflections: Innovative Techniques NOAA/CU-Boulder/UCAR ​ ​ ​ ​ Principal Investigators: Kristine Larson, Professor, Dept. of Aerospace Engineering Sciences, University of Colorado John Braun, Project Scientist, UCAR COSMIC Program Eric Small, Professor, Dept. of Geological Sciences, University of Colorado Valery Zavorotny, Physicist, Physical Sciences Division, Earth System Research Laboratory, NOAA WINNER: GOES-16 the New Generation of Geostationary Weather Satellites Cooperative Institute For Research in the Atmospheric (CIRA) ​ ​ ​ ​ Principal Investigators: Steven Miller, Senior Research Scientist, CIRA Curtis Seaman, Research Scientist, CIRA Daniel Lindsey, Research Meteorologist, NOAA/NESDIS/RAMMB ​ Watch their Spotlight Videos - and say "WOW!"​ ​ Read the Press Release ​ 2017 Governor's Awards for High Impact R... All Categories Play Video Play Video 02:04 CO-LABS 2017 CO LABS Governor's Award for High Impact Research event The 2017 CO-LABS Governor's Awards for High Impact Research event on October 5, 2017 recognized four significant research projects with an audience of over 220 supporters of science. From the quantum realm of bioscience to the vanguard of atmospheric physics, from the technology advancing new possibilities in manufacturing to crucial new assessments of severe weather – CO-LABS was proud to convene more than 200 fellow champions of science at Colorado's premier scientific research recognition event at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Researchers, entrepreneurs, business leaders, technology experts, STEM educators and government officials mingled and celebrated the exceptional and groundbreaking work of scientists and engineers from Colorado’s federally-funded research labs! See the winning projects' individual videos for more details. This year's winners are • JILA and Dr. Tom Perkins' New twists in the molecules of life • NIST - Seeing More with a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) • NOAA/CU-Boulder/UCAR - GPS Reflections: Innovative Techniques • CIRA - GOES-16 the New Generation of Geostationary Weather Satellites Also for 2017 there are three Honorable Mentions: • USDA ARS - Sugar Beet research with High Impact in Colorado, the USA and the World • CIRES - Snow Research Improves Avalanche Safety, Water Resource Management • NOAA ESRL- Science on a Sphere and SOS Explorer visualization systems James Balog gave the keynote, speaking on “The Value of Scientific Research in the Anthropocene.” Mr. Balog is the world-renowned photographer featured in the Emmy Award-winning documentary Chasing Ice and founder of the Extreme Ice Survey. His insight into global environmental and societal trends, and the crucial role research plays in assessing complex factors shaping our world make him a compelling addition to this year’s CO-LABS Awards ceremony. “I've always believed that photography is a way to shape human perception,” says Mr. Balog. “I look forward to joining the esteemed guests at the Governor’s Awards to discuss and share imagery that highlights the power of art and science to not only reveal incredibly profound forces in nature but also to be a source of inspiration and solutions to our most prevalent and pressing societal challenges.” (Read more his work at http://extremeicesurvey.org ) “The projects in this year’s CO-LABS High-Impact Awards spotlight what makes Colorado a leader in innovation It’s terrific to see research advance its partnerships with the private sector. The range of crucial and profound discoveries coming from these labs are a national asset,” said Governor John Hickenlooper. “I congratulate the scientific teams for their groundbreaking work and am excited to see the mark they will leave on our state and society as a whole.” Representing Governor Hickenlooper was the state’s Chief Innovation Officer Erik Mitisek. Play Video Play Video 02:59 CO-LABS Governor Awards '17- CIRA Play Video Play Video 02:55 CO-LABS Governor Awards'17-NIST Play Video Play Video 02:19 CO-LABS Governor's Awards '17-NOAA-CU-UCAR Play Video Play Video 02:46 CO-LABS JILA - WINNER 2017 CO-LABS Governor's Awards for High-Impact Research JILA and Dr. Tom Perkins' New Twists in the Molecules of Life - JILA is a joint research institute of the University of Colorado at Boulder and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Principal Investigator: Thomas T. Perkins, Ph.D. Fellow of JILA & Adjunct Professor, Dept. of Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Dr. Tom Perkins of JILA has partnered with the biotech industry to develop powerful new tools to dramatically improve the measurement and understanding of the complex structure and function of single proteins and nucleic acids - in real time and under real-world biological conditions. Dr. Perkins has developed the world’s most sensitive atomic force microscope (AFM), and applied it to making the world’s most precise measurements of the structural details of individual protein and nucleic acid molecules. With this tool, he is now able to observe these large and complex molecules fold and unfold as they perform their crucial biological functions. Dr. Perkins has worked with AFM manufacturers to develop the world’s most sensitive AFM–with 100 times better resolution of position, force, and time than previous AFMs. The custom-made cantilevers for these machines are able to operate in the wet, warm environment of living cells. Dr. Perkins has teamed up with pharmaceutical/biotech companies to apply his unique AFM technology to make ultraprecise measurements of real-time folding and unfolding of individual protein and nucleic acid molecules for the first time. These experiments are creating rich new opportunities for medical diagnostics, treatments, and fundamental biomedical research; the AFM technology recognized by this award can directly advance biomedical research and lead to new biotech products. Dr. Perkins has transferred his technology through inventions and patents, through widely cited scientific publications, through direct collaborations with industry, and through training graduate students and postdoctoral fellows who have gone on to advance this revolutionary technology at AFM and biotech companies. Learn more at https://goo.gl/FVs62Z 2018 Governor's Awards Read More 2017 Governor's Awards Read More 2016 Governor's Awards Read More James Balog was the keynote speaker at the 2017 Governor’s Awards for High Impact Research event, speaking on “The Value of Scientific Research in the Anthropocene.” Mr. Balog is the world-renowned photographer featured in the Emmy Award-winning documentary Chasing Ice and founder of the Extreme Ice Survey. His insight into global environmental and societal trends, and the crucial role research plays in assessing complex factors shaping our world make him a compelling addition to this year’s CO-LABS Awards ceremony. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ “I've always believed that photography is a way to shape human perception,” says Mr. Balog. “I look forward to joining the esteemed guests at the Governor’s Awards to discuss and share imagery that highlights the power of art and science to not only reveal incredibly profound forces in nature but also to be a source of inspiration and solutions to our most prevalent and pressing societal challenges.” (Read more about Mr. Balog below.) History of the Governor’s Awards for High Impact Research: Started in 2009, the annual Governor's Awards for High-Impact Research celebrates the brilliant ground-breaking discoveries and innovative research from Colorado’s ecosystem of federally-funded laboratories and institutions. That year, following the creation of CO-LABS in 2007, Governor Bill Ritter suggested hosting a celebratory and spotlighting event; the various labs were prompted to submit nominations and a Selection Committee was convened of professional researchers, technologists, academics and economic development experts to identify remarkable research having “high impact” on society. Each year at this event, CO-LABS spotlights the men and women creating our future through brilliant technological and engineering discoveries in aerospace, energy, agriculture, public health, weather prediction, wildlife ecology, communication, earth science and dozens of other fields of research right here in our communities. Over the years Colorado Governors Ritter and Hickenlooper have presented winners with these awards and comments recognizing their impact on our country's leadership in science. ​

Virtual & Video Lab Access COVID has reduced our in-person access to most research labs - check out these on-demand virtual and video access options! National Center for Atmospheric Research Virtual exhibits at the Mesa Lab I'm an image title Describe your image here. I'm an image title Describe your image here. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Science on a Sphere Explorer videos

ABOUT US We Connect Technologists To Manifest Scientific Discoveries Improving the World: Since World War II, our country's national security and global leadership in technology has relied on fundamental scientific research and discoveries in taxpayer-funded research labs. At CO-LABS we believe it is crucial to support scientific research in Colorado - and that discoveries in federal research labs here are making the world smarter, safer, more resilient and capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st Century. For the United States, being the source of our own brilliance is crucial in the face of global challenges ranging from public health to energy to cybersecurity to food production (and space exploration, climate change/extreme weather, robotics, augmented reality, quantum computing, and much more...) We ensure technologists, economic development experts, scientific thought leaders and elected officials can leverage the resources, discoveries and cutting-edge technologies available in Colorado's federal research labs. Our Aspirational Purpose: To Make Colorado THE Hub of Scientific Research Addressing the Planet's Most Crucial Challenges What CO-LABS Means to Colorado's Innovation Economy: Our Mission : It is our mission to ensure Colorado's federal research laboratory ecosystem remains a world-class scientific discovery and innovation asset to the state and the country by communicating the value of taxpayer-funded research, promoting partnerships with federal labs and connecting with key stakeholders across academia, the private sector and civic leadership. ​ Our Vision: We envision Colorado as the Epicenter of Interdisciplinary Scientific Discoveries by a Diverse Network of Scientists Shaping The Path of Humanity. ​ In pursuit of this mission and vision, CO-LABS educates the public, businesses, educational organizations, and government officials about the value of federally-funded scientific laboratories. We create connections between these sectors, and support the technology transfer of Colorado's scientific resources from the lab into society. ​ Through events, economic analyses, strategic communications and networking activities we work to: • PROMOTE Colorado as a global leader in research and technology • EDUCATE the public about the labs’ impact and importance of sustained funding for research • CONNECT the labs, universities and businesses to facilitate partnerships and technology transfer Established in 2007, CO-LABS is a tax exempt 501(c)3 that is funded through membership and event sponsorship donations. The CO-LABS consortium includes Colorado federal research laboratories, research universities, state and local governments, economic development organizations, private businesses and nonprofit organizations. ​ Colorado’s research laboratories are often called upon to help solve state, national, and global issues. CO-LABS plays an important role in bringing together the collective research and development expertise within Colorado to highlight the state-of-the-art in scientific knowledge and identify solutions to difficult societal challenges. CO-LABS considers any research entity getting 50% or more of its funding from federal sources to be included in Colorado's network of "federal labs", whether they are financially contributing members or not to CO-LABS. With this definition, we include several joint research institutes on university campuses working on basic research as well as the commercialization of technologies. ​ Key CO-LABS Activities We collect and analyze data to understand the scientific and economic value of federally-funded research labs in Colorado. According to our 2017 study 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. 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. We facilitate interactions between Colorado’s federal labs, universities, and its businesses to enhance the potential for new partnerships, technology transfer, and job creation. We host the annual Governor’s High-Impact Research Awards celebration to recognize the global research impact of Colorado-based federal scientists. ​ To find out more about becoming a CO-LABS partner contact Executive Director Dan Powers at 720-389-0455 or dan@co-labs.org . Raymond P. Goodrich, PhD Executive Director, Infectious Disease Research Center , Colorado State University "The work that CO-LABS does helps us maintain a leadership position that not only benefits Colorado, but also provides the source of problem solving and problem preventing efforts ranging from infectious disease research, agricultural programs, energy programs, defense related programs and environmental efforts that impact the citizens of Colorado, the United States and the world in general.” Katie Woslager Senior Manager- Advanced Industries , Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) “The State of Colorado has enjoyed working with CO-LABS to strengthen our relationships with Federal Labs to further promote collaboration and participation. We support your mission and role in bringing together the collective research and development expertise from Colorado. The convening of government, EDO's, Federal Labs, Universities and the private sector strengthens Colorado assets to help us become a global leader in technology development.” Vicky Lea Director of Aerospace and Aviation, Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation “The recent CO-LABS tour of CU Boulder’s Laboratory for Atmospheric & Space Physics certainly offered a wonderful atmosphere for learning and networking! CO-LABS tours provide a highly engaging way to learn about the exceptional Federal research assets in our region, and they’re also very effective in connecting us to the outstanding “people assets” within our community - the leaders, scientists and innovators who work at the cutting edge of scientific advancement.” Erik Mitisek President, Highwing & Founder, Denver Startup Week ​ “CO-LABS is the innovation glue that inspires, connects and convenes science and our lab community in Colorado. The greatest innovations are created – together – and CO-LABS’ commitment to connect ideas to resources and opportunity – is a blessing to our State and a pillar of our innovation community. I could not be more thankful for the work they so passionately do.”

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

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. ​ ​

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The ScienceMatters Newsletter Get the latest events, commentary, news and updates from the brilliant research ecosystem in Colorado September 2021 Issue Excerpt below Click here to see entire September newsletter September, 2021 Hello CO-LABS friends, The forces of science and discovery-based policy are coalescing towards an historic national decision to fund federal research to levels not seen (in context) since the 1960s. Within parts of Congress, the vision is clear for investments that would empower the spectrum of federal agencies' research in Colorado (and across the country) and support federally-funded science entities across the state. However, the support is not formalized yet. Fortunately there is so much to be inspired by in the research labs throughout Colorado - we are sincerely communicating to our elected and civic leaders how your projects and partnerships are crucial and provide the science-based solutions to our country's challenges. Alas, as I write this the federal government is set to shut down again on October 1. If this is not resolved immediately, the waste of time next week incurred by scientists to plan to not be able to access their work as of Oct. 1 would be another self-inflicted setback to our country's scientific leadership. If a shutdown indeed happens, it is another blow to our global scientific standing, and an egregious waste of our taxes as the expense of a "restart" is more than any theoretical savings, with the attendant loss of data, research activity and collaborations. Fortunately the network of CO-LABS is resilient and includes a range of stakeholders who can continue their research and partnership activities that leverage the brilliance and resources of federal labs. In fact, Colorado's robust spectrum of innovative technologists and science-themed companies and academics embody one of the most active and growing hubs in the country. I am optimistic for a budget approval vote that recognizes the value of keeping our national competitiveness engine cycling along strong. There are a few recent highlights below. Thank you for your support, and for all the ways you enhance Colorado's crucial research ecosystem! Sincerely, Dan Powers Executive Director, CO-LABS

“What I love about CO-LABS is you have an ecosystem of scientists working on a vast array of difficult and perplexing problems, and yet they talk to each other, they work with each other, they inspire each other. I take great pride that we are in the foundational position to address so many societal challenges. On behalf of the entire state of Colorado want to extend congratulations and appreciation for all that all of you do, especially the winners.” - Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper Eighth Annual Event Honored Colorado’s Top Scientists and Engineers for Projects Having a Significant Impact on Society! From the furthest reaches of space to the smallest quantum particles to measurements of atmospheric gases and assessment of human B cell antibodies – on October 6, 2016 CO-LABS hosted the premier scientific research recognition event in Colorado with over 170 researchers, entrepreneurs, business leaders and government officials as we celebrate the exceptional and groundbreaking work of scientists and engineers from Colorado’s federal research labs. ​ Presented By: ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Read The Press Release (PDF) Read Testimonials of the Attendees (PDF) WINNER In the category of Earth Systems and Space Sciences: Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ LASP Director Dr. Daniel Baker Leads Research on Critical Space Weather Forecasting Missions READ MORE Winner in the category of Foundational Science and Technology: JILA is a joint institute between CU-Boulder and the National Institute of Standards and Technology ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The JILA Quantum Machine Team: Extending Mastery of Quantum Mechanics from Microscopic Particles to Human-Made Machines READ MORE Winner in the category of Public Health and Life Sciences: Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases (CDC) ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Innovative Diagnostic Response to Public Health Emergencies - Zika and Yellow Fever Epidemics READ MORE Winner in the category of Sustainability: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Earth Systems Research Laboratory (NOAA ESRL) ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Preparing and Maintaining Critical Greenhouse Gas Calibration Standards and Methods Used in the Worldwide Monitoring of these Critical Atmospheric Gases Honorable Mention: National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) ​ ​ ​ ​ NREL's Battery Internal Short-Circuit (ISC) Device: A Breakthrough in Battery Safety READ MORE ​ Watch their Spotlight Videos - and say "WOW!"​ ​ 2016 Governor's Awards for High Impact R... All Categories Live: 00 : 00 : 00 Add reminder Dan Powers Test Live stream with Dan First try with the Wix Platform for a live stream conversation via laptop Play Video Play Video 02:24 CO-LABS CO-LABS 2016 Governor's Award For High Impact Research event spotlight From the furthest reaches of space to the smallest quantum particles to measurements of atmospheric gases and assessment of human B cell antibodies – world-class research projects in these fields of study were celebrated at the CO-LABS 2016 Governor's Award for High-Impact Research event on October 6, 2016. Governor John Hickenlooper remarked about the profound “culture of discovery” within Colorado’s federal research labs and universities to the nearly 200 supporters of science gathered in the Ricketson Auditorium at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. In its eighth year, the event gathers scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs, business leaders and government officials with highlight videos, keynote speakers and a reception including the Museum’s compelling Space Odyssey exhibit. The event is supported by numerous sponsors, foremost being the Presenting Sponsor The Alliance for Sustainable Energy. "What I love about CO-LABS is you have an ecosystem of scientists working on a vast array of difficult and perplexing problems, and yet they talk to each other, they work with each other, they inspire each other. As Governor I take great pride that we are in the foundational position to address so many societal challenges. On behalf of the entire state of Colorado want to extend congratulations and appreciation for all that all of you do, especially the winners.” - Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper Read more testimonials from the event at http://co-labs.org/news/governor-s-awards-2016 Play Video Play Video 02:35 2016 CO-LABS Gov Awards winner -Earth Systems Space Sciences - LASP At the 8th Annual CO-LABS Governor's Awards for High-Impact Research on October 6, 2016 the winning project in the Earth Systems and Space Sciences category was: LASP Director Dr. Daniel Baker Leads Research on Critical Space Weather Forecasting Missions from the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics at CU-Boulder (LASP) “I am honored on behalf of all the great people at LASP doing space research to accept this recognition from CO-LABS and Governor Hickenlooper,” said Dr. Daniel Baker, Director of the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics. We appreciate the acknowledgement of the efforts we are making at the University of Colorado to address space weather issues. It is gratifying to study themes that are both fascinating from a basic scientific point of view and also highly relevant for societal needs.” Read more about this project at https://goo.gl/XP7rzy Play Video Play Video 02:59 CO-LABS CDC: 2016 CO-LABS Governor's Award for High-Impact Research winner At the CO-LABS Governor's Award for High-Impact Research event on October 6, 2016 the winner in the category of Public Health and Life Sciences was: Innovative Diagnostic Response to Public Health Emergencies - Zika and Yellow Fever Epidemics by the Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases. “Every day CDC staff are committed to protecting the American public and people worldwide from disease,” said CDC Director Tom Frieden, M.D., M.P.H. “The Division of Vector-Borne Diseases is proud to be a part of the Colorado research community. It is especially gratifying that the dedication and innovation of our talented staff are being recognized by this honor.” Read more about the project at https://goo.gl/4lpgeP Play Video Play Video 02:56 CO-LABS JILA: 2016 CO-LABS Governor's Award for High-Impact Research winner At the CO-LABS Governor's Award for High-Impact Research event on October 6, 2016 the winner in the category of Foundational Science and Technology was: The JILA Quantum Machine Team: Extending Mastery of Quantum Mechanics from Microscopic Particles to Human-Made Machines by JILA (JILA is a joint institute between CU-Boulder and the National Institute of Standards and Technology) "We are thrilled to have the Governor's recognition of the Quantum Machine Team as a preeminent example of the partnership between University of Colorado and Federal government scientists that serves to maintain Colorado's leading role in emerging science and technology innovation,” said JILA Chair Dr. Dana Z. Anderson: “Building on more than 50 years of Colorado-Federal joint research and training, JILA is proud to witness quantum technology having a rapidly growing impact on the economy of Colorado and the nation." Read more about the project at https://goo.gl/MpHXxT Play Video Play Video 02:47 CO-LABS NOAA: 2016 CO-LABS Governor's Award for High-Impact Research winner At the CO-LABS Governor's Award for High-Impact Research event on October 6, 2016 the winner in the category of Sustainability was: Preparing and Maintaining Critical Greenhouse Gas Calibration Standards and Methods Used in the Worldwide Monitoring of these Critical Atmospheric Gases by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Earth Systems Research Laboratory. Principal Investigator: Bradley Hall History of the Governor’s Awards for High Impact Research: Started in 2009, the annual Governor's Awards for High-Impact Research celebrates the brilliant ground-breaking discoveries and innovative research from Colorado’s ecosystem of federally-funded laboratories and institutions. That year, following the creation of CO-LABS in 2007, Governor Bill Ritter suggested hosting a celebratory and spotlighting event; the various labs were prompted to submit nominations and a Selection Committee was convened of professional researchers, technologists, academics and economic development experts to identify remarkable research having “high impact” on society. Each year at this event, CO-LABS spotlights the men and women creating our future through brilliant technological and engineering discoveries in aerospace, energy, agriculture, public health, weather prediction, wildlife ecology, communication, earth science and dozens of other fields of research right here in our communities. Over the years Colorado Governors Ritter and Hickenlooper have presented winners with these awards and comments recognizing their impact on our country's leadership in science. ​ 2018 Governor's Awards More 2017 Governor's Awards Read More 2016 Governor's Awards Read More

The United States spends more than any other nation on R&D each year, investing over $150 billion in federally funded R&D alone. Critical technologies such as life-saving drugs, vaccines, medical devices, the internet, GPS and countless other innovations underpinning every aspect of the American way of life are traceable to groundbreaking work at federal laboratories, federally funded universities and private-sector R&D organizations. As part of the Lab-to-Market Cross Agency Priority (CAP) Goal in the President’s Management Agenda, the green paper’s findings can help to inform future deliberations, decision-making and possible actions that could maximize the return on taxpayer investment in federally funded R&D. This should, in turn, strengthen U.S. economic competitiveness and support U.S. national security needs. Incorporating extensive feedback from industry, academic and government stakeholders, the NIST report describes options for enhancing how federally funded inventions move from the laboratory to the marketplace by: streamlining federal regulations, enabling greater flexibility for public-private partnerships, increasing engagement with private-sector investors, building a more entrepreneurial workforce, and improving support for innovation by clarifying the intended purpose of “march-in rights.” The green paper serves as a discussion document that informs, but does not prescribe, policy decisions by the federal government. No findings in this final green paper would require legislative changes to the Bayh-Dole Act. “The United States has the best universities, research institutes and federal labs in the world, and we need modern approaches that work at the speed of business to get the most from their R&D outcomes,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. NIST ROI Initiative NIST ROI Initiative Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Search video... Now Playing Government_Efforts_to_Improve__Technology_Transfer_Video_Download 00:50 Play Video Now Playing The_Biggest_Roadblock_for_Federal_Technology_Transfer_Video_Download 00:58 Play Video Now Playing The_Importance_of_Federal_Research_&_Development_Video_Download 00:43 Play Video

NREL’s Economic Impact Tops $1 Billion July 7, 2020: the economic impact of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory is reported for FY 2019 at $1.4 billion across the country—up from $1.1 billion in fiscal 2017. NREL’s economic impact in Colorado rose to $875 million from $748 million during that same period. Located in Jefferson County, which is part of metropolitan Denver, the U.S. Department of Energy’s NREL has seen its economic impact on the county climb by more than 218% during the seven-year span from fiscal year 2012 to fiscal 2019. The calculation, based on an analysis by the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado, BoulderPDF , shows the persistent impression NREL has on the area’s economy. ​ The future energy grid will likely be more complex than today’s technology can support, so NREL is pursuing a wide range of solutions through basic science and engineering that promise to transform energy systems, reduce waste, and lower electricity costs as industry finds ways to bring new NREL technologies to market. ​ “As global energy use continues to increase, we must ensure our energy sources are safe, secure, and reliable. This is the important work that more than 2,200 dedicated NREL researchers, scientists and professionals strive to move forward each day,” said Dr. Martin Keller, NREL Director. “Our work would not be possible without the support of DOE and the many other global, national, and local partners and stakeholders who are also vested in solving worldwide energy challenges.” ​ Research conducted at NREL reduces investment risk in new technologies while creating new business opportunities throughout the economy. The dollar figures represent only a fraction of the impacts from NREL, which range from university-laboratory-business collaborations to spinoff technologies that are commercialized. NREL counted 871 active partnership agreements and 587 partners in fiscal 2019. Approximately 63% of employees were involved in core research and development. ​ NREL’s direct expenses for fiscal 2019 totaled $491.8 million, of which 87% came from funding from the Department of Energy. The vast majority of funds are spent in Colorado, further boosting the laboratory’s economic importance to the state. ​ Learn more about NREL’s economic impact and how NREL research explores energy systems and technologies—and the science behind them—for a future powered by affordable, abundant, and clean energy. ​ NREL is the U.S. Department of Energy's primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development. NREL is operated for the Energy Department by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC.