RENO -- Nevada scientists will have the opportunity June 16 to discuss scientific collaborations with top officials from the National Science Foundation (NSF).

The regional Biological Sciences Conference at the Desert Research Institute (2215 Raggio Parkway) will feature a variety of topics and discussions relating to NSF funding opportunities for scientists and faculty. The conference starts at 8:45 a.m. and adjourns at 5 p.m. (see agenda).

The meeting presents three truly unique opportunities for Nevada's scientists, according to Dr. Jim Coleman, executive director of the Biological Sciences Center at the Desert Research Institute and project director for Nevada NSF- EPSCoR.

"This meeting gives Nevada a chance to show off its extensive scientific research capabilities to the major basic science funding agency in the country," he said. "This event also provides Nevada's scientists a chance to engage with several of the National Science Foundation's key decision makers regarding future directions of science in the United States, as well as funding opportunities that can enhance the research enterprise in the State."

Dr. Coleman added that Nevada's scientists would also get to meet and potentially form productive research collaborations and partnerships with biological scientists from other EPSCoR states.

Co-hosted by Nevada, Idaho and Wyoming's Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, scientists from 19 states are expected to attend the conference.

Comprised of two doctoral-granting universities, four comprehensive community colleges and one environmental research institution, the University and Community College System of Nevada serves the educational and job training needs of the nation’s fastest growing state. As Nevada’s only system of higher education, the UCCSN provides educational opportunities to more than 82,000 students.