Belay Lands Additional Grant to Expand
BSC’s Biomedical Research Capacity

( Bluefield)—Dr. Tesfaye Belay recently received notification that the latest in a series of grant applications he has submitted for equipment to conduct biomedical research will be funded. His application for nearly $27,000 in funding was approved by West Virginia Idea Network for Biomedical Research Excellence (WV-INBRE). Earlier this semester, the Bluefield State College Assistant Professor of Research had landed WV-INBRE grants to underwrite additional equipment.

“These WV-INBRE grants permit the College to purchase equipment essential for conducting basic medical research,” Belay explained. “This grant will underwrite the cost of a PCR system that can be used for DNA amplification needed to conduct gene expression studies.” Previous grants from the biomedical research network have been used to purchase the first fluorescence microscope ever obtained by BSC.

“In addition to research applications, this equipment will also be used to teach basic molecular biology techniques to students,” he continued. “Through these grants, we are able to significantly strengthen the biomedical research capacity of our laboratory.” He anticipates that the new equipment will arrive before the conclusion of the Spring 2006 Semester.

“The West Virginia Idea Network for Biomedical Research Excellence recognizes the importance of medical research at Bluefield State College,” Belay stated. “As a participant in this statewide higher education research network, we are thankful for the opportunity to expand our College’s biomedical research capacity.”

March 6, 2006