I am honored to be selected as Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Research during my second term in Congress. Because of my background in science and medicine, I understand very well the importance of research in improving the life of all Americans and the role it plays in economic development. I look forward to working with the committee to foster innovation in the research industry so that we can create jobs and grow the economy in Indiana and nationwide.
The Subcommittee on Research is part of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and has legislative jurisdiction and general oversight and investigative authority on all matters relating to science policy and science education.
Research and Development (R&D) affects every Hoosier, whether they work directly with R&D in these related industries or are affected indirectly in their everyday lives. For example, agriculture R&D includes studies on ways to mitigate the effects natural disasters (especially droughts in Indiana) and pests have on fruit, vegetables, and livestock supplies.
When it comes to education, STEM education plays an important role in maintaining the United States’ global competitiveness and continuing economic development. This includes all education from K-12 to the post graduate level. Furthermore, the subcommittee has oversight on the National Science Foundation, which funds about 20% of basic research at America’s universities and colleges. The 8th District is home to a variety of different schools, including Rose-Hulman, Indiana State University, Ivy Tech, University of Southern Indiana, and University of Evansville, that could benefit from this funding.
Finally, the subcommittee has authority over the Office of Science and Technology Policy, which was established to advise the President on science and technology issues. This is critical as we work to ensure federal taxpayer funds are spent efficiently on scientific contributions and that government programs and rules are based on sound science.
For more information on the subcommittee and to access the website, click here.
