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UW-Madison to grow defense research, but not weapons

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By In Business Madison
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UW-Madison wants to pursue research with the U.S. Department of Defense, but not to build weapons of war, the Cap Times reports.

Vice Chancellor Dorota Grejner-Brzezinska specifically said it would not be classified research to develop new weapons, but defense research to benefit society and national security. Grejner-Brzezinska is in charge of UW-Madison’s $1.7 billion research operation. 

Some examples of research were provided, including UW-Madison’s work to treat military members who lose their eyesight. Others are researching lung disease and traumatic brain injuries. 

UW-Madison received $67.4 million from the Department of Defense in recent years, 8% of the university’s research awards. 

Cuts to federal grants in recent months by President Donald Trump’s administration prompted Grejner-Brzezinska to explore the defense research options. Funding cuts led to UW-Madison admitting fewer graduate students this school year.

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