3M Provides Major Funding for 'U' Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy

The Minnesota Medical Foundation at the University of Minnesota has announced a gift from the 3M Foundation to the University's Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP). The $450,000 3M Foundation grant will provide support for CIDRAP's research, education and outreach efforts.

An interdisciplinary program of the Academic Health Center, CIDRAP was founded in September 2001 and is led by Dr. Michael Osterholm, an internationally recognized expert in public health and a member of the faculty at the University's School of Public Health. CIDRAP is at the forefront of addressing national issues related to public health preparedness, agricultural and food biosecurity, food safety and emerging infectious diseases.

CIDRAP works to prevent illness and death from infectious diseases through epidemiologic research and the rapid translation of scientific information into real-world practical applications and solutions. Focusing on threats to public health that demand immediate attention, CIDRAP assembles research-based knowledge on the epidemiology, prevention and control of disease agents and translates that knowledge into "best practices" and policy options.

Through its Web site, www.cidrap.umn.edu, CIDRAP serves as a highly credible information clearinghouse on selected infectious disease issues around the world and on relevant research, medical care and policy implications.

The 3M Foundation grant is intended to ensure CIDRAP's continued success in addressing issues of importance to Minnesota and the nation - in recognition of increased interest and concern surrounding public health issues.

"The 3M Foundation is pleased to support the University of Minnesota's efforts to enhance its public health research," said David Powell, president of the 3M Foundation. "The University of Minnesota is a renowned leader in the field of public health and with the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, it has an even larger role in developing solutions to emerging public health issues."

"The gift from the 3M Foundation comes at a critical time, as we are grappling with issues of national security, emerging infectious disease and the safety of the nation's food supply," said Osterholm. "The gift will enable CIDRAP to continue to serve as a source of up-to-the-minute information and technical assistance for the nation's public health workforce."

3M's grant will be received and administered by the Minnesota Medical Foundation, which supports health-related research and education at the University of Minnesota Medical School and School of Public Health.

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