"The CIVD's BL-3 status means that when we constructed this laboratory we had to meet some of the highest safety standards established by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)," said Alex Lucas, Ph.D., deputy director of CHORI. "The end result is that we are better equipped to expand our research capabilities to design and improve vaccines in ways we never could before."

CHORI was awarded a $2 million construction grant from the National Center for Research Resources (NCRR) at the NIH to build the CIVD. Dr. Lucas was the principal investigator on this grant. The remaining funds were secured through individual donations and large financial gifts from the philanthropic community.

CHORI's operating budget in 2005 is $48 million, which is generated through extramural grants obtained by scientists and clinicians. The awards CHORI scientists received placed CHORI 14th out of 113 children's hospitals and pediatric departments in the United States, according to data provided by The National Association of Children's Hospitals in their most recent survey.

'"/>

Contact: Venita Robinson
vrobinson@mail.cho.org
510-428-3069
Children's Hospital & Research Center at Oakland
3-Feb-2005