Press ReleaseNeutral2026-05-13

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for ISU’s Efforts to Expand Research in Critical Minerals

EnvironmentInfrastructure

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This press release from Representative Michael K. Simpson (R-ID) was published on 2026-05-13 and titled "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for ISU’s Efforts to Expand Research in Critical Minerals".

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Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for ISU’s Efforts to Expand Research in Critical Minerals

WASHINGTON —Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $2,069,000 in funding for the Expanding the Research Core: Advanced Imaging, Sequencing, Omics, and Critical Materials Capabilities Project in Pocatello, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. “Recovering critical minerals can significantly enhance the long-term energy, environmental, and national security of our state and nation. I have long advocated for expanding access to critical minerals, and I am proud to support Idaho State University’s efforts to expand its research capacity into this recovery happening right here at home,” said Rep. Simpson. “We appreciate Congressman Simpson's leadership in helping ISU fulfill its Contract for Idaho. This investment in ISU's research capacity enhances ISU's state-of-the-art imaging, sequencing, and critical mineral capabilities. It ensures our students are trained on the tools industry requires, while our faculty solve the real-world challenges facing Idaho’s energy and mineral sectors. Together, we are securing a self-reliant future for our state by connecting science, industry, and workforce development to create a lasting economic impact,” said Idaho State University President Robert Wagner. “Acquiring these instruments represents a major advancement for ISU’s education and research mission. These resources will provide students with hands-on training, preparing them for high-paying careers in industry and research. In addition, the enhanced infrastructure will strengthen ISU researchers’ competitiveness for federal funding focused on critical minerals, water systems, and environmental challenges. This investment will help position Idaho as a leader in sustainable resource recovery by connecting science, industry, and workforce development,” said Kavita Sharma, PhD. ISU Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences. This funding will allow Idaho State University to purchase specialized equipment, enabling further research into critical mineral recovery. As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho. The Expanding the Research Core: Advanced Imaging, Sequencing, Omics, and Critical Materials Capabilities Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

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Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for ISU’s Efforts to Expand Research in Critical Minerals WASHINGTON —Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $2,069,000 in funding for the Expanding the Research Core: Advanced Imaging, Sequencing, Omics, and Critical Materials Capabilities Project in Pocatello, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. “Recovering critical minerals can significantly enhance the long-term energy, environmental, and national security of our state and nation. I have long advocated for expanding access to critical minerals, and I am proud to support Idaho State University’s efforts to expand its research capacity into this recovery happening right here at home,” said Rep. Simpson. “We appreciate Congressman Simpson's leadership in helping ISU fulfill its Contract for Idaho. This investment in ISU's research capacity enhances ISU's state-of-the-art imaging, sequencing, and critical mineral capabilities. It ensures our students are trained on the tools industry requires, while our faculty solve the real-world challenges facing Idaho’s energy and mineral sectors. Together, we are securing a self-reliant future for our state by connecting science, industry, and workforce development to create a lasting economic impact,” said Idaho State University President Robert Wagner. “Acquiring these instruments represents a major advancement for ISU’s education and research mission. These resources will provide students with hands-on training, preparing them for high-paying careers in industry and research. In addition, the enhanced infrastructure will strengthen ISU researchers’ competitiveness for federal funding focused on critical minerals, water systems, and environmental challenges. This investment will help position Idaho as a leader in sustainable resource recovery by connecting science, industry, and workforce development,” said Kavita Sharma, PhD. ISU Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences. This funding will allow Idaho State University to purchase specialized equipment, enabling further research into critical mineral recovery. As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho. The Expanding the Research Core: Advanced Imaging, Sequencing, Omics, and Critical Materials Capabilities Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.