#USA #Marine Biological Laboratory #Mark Terasaki #biological research #Woods Hole

Historic Contribution to Marine Biology

The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) has reached a major milestone in its efforts to advance biological research and education with a groundbreaking $25 million gift from Mark Terasaki. This significant donation marks the largest private contribution in the laboratory's 137-year history, setting a new standard for philanthropy in scientific research.

Unrestricted Support for Core Activities

Terasaki, an esteemed MBL Whitman Scientist and affiliated faculty at the University of Connecticut Health Center, has committed to providing $5 million annually over the next five years. This unrestricted funding will bolster MBL's core operations and infrastructure—crucial elements that support its educational and research programs. Bill Huyett, MBL's Board Chair, highlighted the transformative nature of this gift, emphasizing that it enables the organization to adapt effectively to the evolving landscape of basic research.

"Mark's gift is profound not just for its size, but for its purpose. It will help sustain our educational excellence and research initiatives, further enhancing the positive impact they have on society," said Huyett.

A Legacy of Giving

Terasaki expressed his profound appreciation for MBL, recalling the 40 summers he has spent at the laboratory. He described MBL as a magical hub where groundbreaking insights and collaboration thrive. His contribution also serves as a heartfelt homage to his late father, Paul I. Terasaki, a pioneer in human transplantation known for founding One Lambda, a company specializing in transplant diagnostics.

"The infrastructure costs are essential to keep MBL operational, where countless biological discoveries have emerged and top-tier education has flourished throughout its esteemed history," Terasaki stated.

Navigating Funding Challenges in Research

Dr. Nipam Patel, the Director of MBL, noted the importance of this philanthropy amid significant reductions in federal funding for basic biological research. According to Patel, such support allows scientists to overcome financial obstacles that can hinder their discovering potential breakthroughs. "Mark's generosity will have a lasting impact, facilitating research that could lead to revolutionary advancements in our understanding of biology and the natural world," he explained.

The recognition of the vital role core facilities play in the research ecosystem cannot be overstated. Patel pointed out that appreciation for these foundational resources is often overlooked, even by some major funding bodies. He highlighted that Mark's contribution underscores the necessity of institutional support to empower scientists as they navigate complex research environments.

About the Marine Biological Laboratory

Established in 1888 in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, MBL stands as a leading institution dedicated to scientific exploration and education. With a focus on marine biodiversity, fundamental biological processes, and the interaction between humans and the environment, the laboratory has been central to numerous significant biological discoveries throughout its long-standing heritage.

The MBL operates as a private non-profit affiliate of the University of Chicago and is reputed for its commitment to fostering research excellence. In light of Mark Terasaki's monumental contribution, the Marine Biological Laboratory is poised to further its mission, reinforcing its position as a cornerstone for biological discovery and education in the years to come.

For more information on MBL and its programs, visit www.mbl.edu.