Alabama Sate University’s Department of Biological Sciences has received a $5 million appropriation to spur ASU’s rapidly growing scientific research and training enterprise.

The contribution will significantly enhance ASU’s capacity to train and prepare world-class scientist who will advance the State of Alabama’s position towards a global scientific presence, said Karyn Scissum-Gunn, interim university provost and chair of biological sciences.

“We are witnessing history,” said Gunn. “With our new PhD program in microbiology, cutting edge nanobiotechnology initiative, new state-of-the-art Life Sciences building… a major scientific research hub is evolving in the capital city. We have just taken a leap forward with the support of U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby (R-AL).”