Carnegie Mellon president witnesses signing of federal CHIPS and science act

Farnam Jahanian, Carnegie Mellon University president, recently witnessed President Joe Biden sign the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 into law.

The $280 billion package funds scientific research and development designed to spur the innovation and development of U.S. technology and boost semiconductor manufacturing.

“Passage of this legislation is vitally important for Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania,” Jahanian said on July 28 when the legislation passed. “Like never before, these measures will unleash new opportunities for innovation, workforce and education partnerships that engage our communities with the advanced technologies that have transformed our region, such as AI, robotics, energy and advanced manufacturing,” he said. “This legislation embodies the proven Pittsburgh model of successfully harnessing the power of research and innovation to drive economic development, create jobs and spur regional revitalization for the benefit of all.”

In April 2021, Jahanian testified before the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, urging an increase in federal funding for research.

He urged Congress to double federal funding over the next several years and double the number of fellowships for graduate students and post-doctoral researchers in science and engineering. He also urged increased support for initiatives in STEM education for pre-K through 12th grade students as well as workforce training.