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Biomedical engineering and the whitaker foundation: a thirty-year partnership
1The Whitaker Foundation, Arlington, VA 22209, USA. katona@whitaker.org
Annals of Biomedical Engineering
|May 6, 2006
Summary
The Whitaker Foundation significantly advanced biomedical engineering by funding faculty and educational programs, leading to a near tripling of departments. Emerging interdisciplinary research presents new opportunities and challenges for the field.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Engineering Education
Background:
- The Whitaker Foundation, established in 1976, is closing in 2006 after substantial contributions.
- The foundation awarded over $805 million, with more than $710 million dedicated to biomedical engineering initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the impact of the Whitaker Foundation's funding on the growth and development of biomedical engineering.
- To highlight the foundation's role in establishing academic careers and educational programs.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of grant distribution and fellowship support.
- Tracking the growth of biomedical engineering departments and infrastructure development.
Main Results:
- Approximately 1,500 faculty and 400 graduate students received support.
- The number of biomedical engineering departments nearly tripled to 75.
- 13 new buildings were constructed, leveraging foundation grants.
Conclusions:
- The Whitaker Foundation's closure marks the end of a significant era for biomedical engineering support.
- The field is now established, with new opportunities arising from interdisciplinary research and 'biofication'.
