The fourth annual Nebraska Research and Innovation Conference attracted more than 300 educators, entrepreneurs and policy makers at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel in Lincoln, Nebraska on October 28, 2008. The day long forum "Investing in Talent-Driven Innovation" provided an opportunity for participants to exchange ideas and discuss potential collaborations.
One of the major objectives of Nebraska EPSCoR is to promote economic & workforce development across the state. A highlight of this year's conference was keynote speakers President James B. Milliken and Governor Dave Heineman talking about how research in Nebraska is building a strong innovation economy in the state and how Nebraska’s economic vitality depends on the business and education communities working together.
Other morning presenters were Stan Lapidus, Helicos Biosciences Corporation; Nancee Berger, West Corporation; Doug Rath, Talent Plus; Henry Blount, National Science Foundation; and Tim Fitzsimmons, U.S. Department of Energy.
Luncheon speakers Mike Flood, Speaker of the Nebraska Legislature, and Rod Jetton, Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives, shared ideas on the role of state government in developing the state's innovation capacity.
Afternoon concurrent sessions focused on bioinformatics, biomechanics, engineering and biology, talent development, entrepreneurship and partnerships for research and technology transfer. The conference also featured a reception and research poster presentations concluding the day.
For program details and speaker presentations, see Program.
