Information to enhance your success at UNL | UNL Office of Research | Feb. 2010
Water for Food update
Prem Paul answers faculty questions. Prem S. Paul, vice chancellor for research and economic development, said many people are working to advance plans for a university-wide international research institute to be located at UNL. During the past year, university administrators and the faculty planning committee have focused on establishing international partnerships and exploring private funding sources needed to establish the institute. "This is a tremendous opportunity for Nebraska," Paul said. "We've made progress but this is going to take time. We're still in the planning stages." He estimated that a commitment of $2.5 million to $3 million a year will be necessary to establish the institute and hire a world-class leader as executive director. While there are numerous international water-related organizations, an institute focused on the use of water for food production will fill an unmet worldwide need. It's also an excellent fit for Nebraska and for UNL's strengths in agricultural and water research, Paul said. The institute's overarching goal will be to increase water productivity in agriculture in both developed and developing nations. It is envisioned as a research-focused institute that will create strong partnerships with other research organizations across the nation and the world. It will provide science-based information to inform policymakers, resource managers and the public. "The Water for Food Institute will work closely with other water-related units and researchers across campus and the University of Nebraska system," Paul explained. The Water Center needs to remain strong and continue to play an important role, he added. Paul and Ann Bleed, consultant to the Office of Research and Economic Development, outlined plans for the second annual international Water for Food conference to be May 2-5 in Lincoln. "Water for Food: Growing More with Less" is the working theme. This conference will build on the successful initial conference that attracted speakers and participants from all over the world. Some plenary speakers have been lined up and organizers are seeking others. The conference will include daily breakout sessions on four broad topics: crop breeding, climate effects, managing water for agriculture, and water law and economic policy. Faculty members are encouraged to help plan the conference and to offer suggestions and ideas for speakers and sessions. Ideas for the Water for Food Institute also are welcome. Faculty can submit ideas to unlresearch@unl.edu. This year's conference will feature a juried poster session. Paul said organizers will cover the local registration fee for anyone who presents a poster. "This conference is a way to keep up the momentum we've built for the Water for Food Institute," Paul said. |
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