APLU Hails the Introduction of the Endless Frontiers Act

Washington, DC – Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) President Peter McPherson today issued the following statement on the introduction of the Endless Frontiers Act.

“Public research universities applaud Senators Schumer and Young and Representatives Khanna and Gallagher for their work across the aisle to bolster U.S. discovery and innovation. The Endless Frontiers Act, whose name is taken from a 1945 report that issued a clarion call for what would become the National Science Foundation, serves as a key step in driving U.S. global scientific leadership in the 21st Century. Now more than ever, we need a national commitment to science and research on a grand level. Research and innovation can create new sectors of the global economy, drive economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and ultimately deliver long-term economic growth.

“Federal investment in R&D has languished in recent decades. As a share of the economy, it’s a third of what it was its peak. China, and other countries, meanwhile, have vastly expanded their investments in research and development. The current pandemic has underscored the critical need to redouble public investment in research and development. We must ensure more of these innovations and advancements take place in the U.S. rather than elsewhere around the globe.

“This bill would not only advance U.S. innovation, but also would help ensure the fruits of innovation are broadly shared. Investing in research across the country and in critical sectors such as quantum computing, biotechnology, and robotics will help secure our place as home to the world’s most dynamic and advanced economy.”