Senators: Cornell University to use federal grant for telecommunications research

ITHACA, N.Y. — Cornell University will use a grant of $500,000 from the National Science Foundation (NSF) as it researches ways to improve telecommunications networks nationwide.

Telecommunications systems and infrastructure that can compress more data will have the ability to transmit information “faster and more efficiently,” U.S. Sens. Charles Schumer (D–N.Y.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D–N.Y.) said in a joint news release on Monday announcing the NSF funding.

Such capability “could benefit” residents and businesses across New York, the lawmakers contend.

“Cornell University has a rich tradition of advancing New York’s economy through scientific innovation,” Schumer said. “These cutting-edge scientists are on the cusp of transforming our telecommunications networks, and this funding will allow them to further research ways to develop this critical compression technology. This federal investment will support Cornell University as a leader in the fields of computing and information sciences; and add to the illustrious reputation of the university and its research throughout the nation.”

 Gillibrand said, “When we invest in new research, we can develop innovations and technology that can spark new jobs and attract new businesses to strengthen our economy for years to come. With these funds provided by the National Science Foundation, we have the opportunity to advance research to secure our telecommunications systems and increase the efficiency of our networks.”

The Arlington, Virginia–based National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency that Congress created in 1950 “to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense…” according to the NSF website.

Contact Reinhardt at ereinhardt@cnybj.com