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Dennis Murphy

For the students, by the students

Dr. Hart's Open Forum
Natalie Scherer-Corner Post Reporter

September 30, 2003, David Hart answered the many questions from those who care about the new Life Sciences Center and the role of director during an open forum. Hart is one of four well-qualified candidates, one of which will take on the responsibility of the Life Sciences Center Director. Current positition??

Nearly 30 people attended the open forum, which helped to answer many questions about the future of the Life Sciences Center. The ages ranged from young college students to older professors and administrative staff from the university.

Hart has had many accomplishments throughout his career. He has received his BA from Northern Michigan University, Marquette, Michigan in 1964, his PhD from Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, in 1969, and has earned his Post Doctoral from the University of Illinois at the Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, in 1972.

"I believe that the Life Sciences Center is viewed as a starting point, but a good starting point. The Life Sciences Center is on the right track, but could go much farther," Hart commented on the current standings of the Life Sciences Center.

Hart's plans, if he is selected for the position of director, will be to focus on the Genes and Genomes, Health and Environment and Cellular Communication and Interaction.

Many potential programs hale from Hart's hopes for the center. He wants to start researching on cancer, cardiovascular opportunities, Food for the 21st Century, Reproductive Medicine and Biology of Healthy Aging, along with many other prospective research programs.

"Mizzou already has a history of this research and culture. It's not a 180 degree shift, but it's a competition model to follow," replied Hart when asked why he wanted to research these topics.

Hart believes that through expanded funding, that the Life Sciences Center can be successful. If chosen, Hart would plan to expand on the NIH/HSF fund, the industry of research, the foundation and many donations to the Center.

"My own personal background fits into comparative medical and biology programs. If one theme's focus deals with the competitive biology aspect then I could see myself fitting in well here at Mizzou," he said.

Hart also believes in total research from the students, with supervised research from their professors. "The production will be performed by the students in a disciplinary environment."

"Dr. Hart is a well-qualified candidate for the Life Sciences Center Director," said Jill Fleischmann, freshman, Agribusiness major. "I am sure that the university will choose the best candidate for the position. Whomever the university chooses, will be an excellent pick and will benefit our university."

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