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27 Apr 2006 08:03:33
Work on a dramatic new international research project called the Frozen Ark is beginning this month at the University of Luton and promises to preserve the DNA of endangered animals should they become extinct.
Bedfordshire Euro MP Richard Howitt visited the University’s Institute of Research in Applied Natural Sciences to meet with researchers last Friday (21 April), and pledged to lobby for funding so that the project can continue over the coming years.
The DNA storage project, being run in conjunction with partner universities across Europe, will allow future scientists the opportunity to understand long-lost creatures, and perhaps help with future conservation.
The MEP’s visit comes at a crucial period as Europe is currently negotiating how to invest almost £46 billion in research funding for the period from 2007 to 2013. “With environmental and health research highlighted as key areas for which EU funding is available, the University of Luton is in a key position to boost its applications for further research funding having already benefited from millions in European research cash,” said the Labour MEP.
“The cutting-edge International research I have witnessed here to preserve animals faced with extinction lays down a marker that the University of Luton is a key player in global and European research. It can boast six separate research institutes, and as such, it must continue to be a key benefactor of EU cash. I will be pressing in Europe to make sure that EU cash continues to fuel research here in Luton.”
Speaking after his meeting with the MEP, Luton’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Les Ebdon, said: "Today's visit highlights the excellent work being carried out by our team and we are delighted to welcome Mr Howitt to meet with some of our leading researchers.
"The European Framework Research Programme is one of the great success stories of the EU. Funding is essential to continue such projects and we are delighted that he will be informing his colleagues in Brussels about our work and supporting it over the coming years."
To find out more about the research being carried out at the University of Luton, visit www.luton.ac.uk/research.
Latest news» 2006» Apr» MEP pledges support for research to protect endangered species
