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1. What is the Applied Sciences Laboratory?

The Applied Sciences Laboratory (ASL) is a Spokane-based, contract-research organization. We conduct a broad range of applied-research projects for government agencies and private corporations. The development of commercial applications is a major focus.

ASL was founded in 2004 and is the applied-research component of the Institute for Shock Physics (ISP) at Washington State University’s Pullman, Wash., campus.

We are customer driven, and address our clients’ needs via state-of-the-art research and development. Our primary business thrusts are well defined, but as need dictates and opportunities arise, we will add more.

This diagram illustrates our technical thrusts (top) and supporting capabilities. Our state-of-the-art facilities are designed to support these thrusts. Our labs are also available for the use of outside companies.

2. How is ASL different from the Institute for Shock Physics (ISP?

Both organizations emphasize innovation through multidisciplinary research. Researchers in both groups come from the worlds of physics, chemistry, engineering, and computer sciences 

Our efforts are distinct, but complementary. ISP performs fundamental scientific research. ASL focuses on applied research.

We transform their innovations into practical applications.

Since its inception, ISP has specialized in shock-wave science. Its research aims to reveal the ways matter acts under extremely high pressures.

Under pressure, materials change at their most fundamental levels, providing us with insights that can lead to the creation of new materials, or to the refinement of existing materials.

As they pertain to the realms of engineering and the physical sciences, we expect future technical advances will rely heavily on innovations in the three areas that form our core competencies:

• Materials Sciences/Advanced Materials)
• Optical Sciences
• Computer Modeling and Simulations

As an organization, we will be judged by our achievements in:

• Energy
• National Security
• Materials Sciences/Advanced Materials
• Modeling & Simulations
• Optical Science
• Problem Solving & Tech Transfer

Our success will manifest itself in:

• Research grant and contracts    
• Strong partnerships with companies and institutions designed to explore novel approaches to problem-solving

• Customer-driven research capabilities
• The ability to execute projects with short-term deadlines
• Research that results in commercial applications and technology transfer
• Scientific and technical visibility for Spokane and the State of Washington

Clearly, this is a broader mission than of ISP is measured. It’s known for:

• Innovative research, scientific excellence and programmatic relevance
• Education and training of graduate students and postdoctoral associates, and the participation of undergraduates
• Strong record of publications and scientific presentations
• Partnerships and research collaborations with the Department of Energy National Laboratories

 
3. Why is ASL part of WSU?

Many benefits accrue to ASL through its relationship with WSU: 

• Dr. Yogi Gupta, who directs ISP, founded ASL and obtained the necessary funding.

Dr. Gupta is a professor of physics and a WSU employee. His participation in ASL would not be possible were it not for its university ties.

Moreover, Dr. Gupta has broad responsibility to further research in his field. ASL benefits, as his expertise is contributed at no cost. The same holds for Dr. Choong-Shik Yoo, a chemistry professor and ISP Associate Director.

Because it’s associated with a university, ASL qualifies for funding not available to the private sector. Through the university, the Office of Naval Research has provided substantial grant funding for ASL personnel, equipment, and facilities. 

More recently, the State of Washington has provided funds to WSU that are dedicated for ASL.

ISP has a long-term record of successful grant support from the:

• Office of Naval Research (ONR)
• Department of Energy / NNSA
• Army Research Laboratory
• Air Force Scientific Research Laborator
It has strong partnerships with DOE’s strategic defense laboratories:

• Sandia National Laboratories
• Los Alamos National Laboratory
• Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
In addition, the Federal Government and its agencies have demonstrated its confidence in the university’s ability to provide facility and administrative support services, including compliance with OMB circulars governing performance contracts.

• Spokane presently lacks the scientific infrastructure required to support an innovative research organization. As a research university, WSU provides ASL with a ready-made support structure. 

Its support includes:

• Maintenance and facilities management
• Grants and Research Development Office
• Sponsored Programs Office
• Intellectual Property Office
• The federally approved overhead rate structure

These functions would need to be duplicated and federally approved if ASL were an independent, not-for-profit corporation.

• University research has been linked directly to economic growth. Consider this:

"In the new global economy, the key to commercial success is knowledge. The asset with the greatest leverage in the knowledge economy is the modern research university."

Paul Grogan
President,
The Boston Foundation

4. Why locate ASL in Spokane?

A contract-research group needs easy access to an airport and a healthy corporate community with a high-tech component.  

5. Where is ASL physically located?

ASL is based at the Riverpoint Campus in Spokane. Experimental facilities are co-located in Spokane and Pullman.

As ASL matures, its growth will occur within the University District.

 
6. What economic benefits does ASL bring to Spokane and the region?

• Like any startup venture, ASL will initially expend funds for equipment and facilities. But over time, our major expenditures will transition into those that benefit the community. 

  For each $1 million in research expenditures, we will employ between six and eight researchers.  Economists project for each researcher hired, 2.15 additional jobs are created indirectly.

  That is, for every $1 million in expenditures, as many as 25 new jobs will result.

  We expect research grants and contract awards to grow to $3-5 million per year, stimulating the creation of as many as 100 well-paying positions.

  • ASL will serve Spokane’s technology-based companies through availability of research infrastructure and, more importantly, through jointly funded, cooperative research and development contracts coming from sponsors outside the region.
  • Research organizations commonly spin off high-tech startups. As they grow, new research talent is drawn to the area. The multiplier effect can be significant. 
  • The presence of a research institution attracts high-tech companies from elsewhere.
  • Area students will enjoy new opportunities for employment
  • ASL will add new energy to the emerging University District

    7. Who will use the contract services of ASL?

  At the outset, federal agencies will be the primary sponsors and beneficiaries of our research and development activities.

  In particular, we are optimally situated to support missions mounted by the Departments of Defense (DOD) and Energy (DOE).

  For example, the Department of the Navy has committed substantial resources to its Future Naval Capabilities initiative (FNC). A major component of the programs is the Advanced Capability Electric System, better known as the “all-electric ship.”

  Our work in fuel-cell technology makes us a natural fit for the program.
   
  As we broaden the scope of our activities related to DOD work, industrial partnerships will inevitably evolve, drawing further interest, energy and money into the market.

  We envision that within three years, we will have established partnerships with Spokane companies and institutions aimed at exploring novel approaches to problem solving.

  We also expect to function as a technical resource for the community and will provide expertise, along with scientific and technical equipment, to local companies. Often, companies are challenged with scientific and technical problems, but lack in-house expertise. Examples of ways we might help include:

  • Our Materials and Optical Characterization Facility will offer advanced characterization technology to examine materials and provide information about their composition, structure, and properties.
  • The Computational Modeling and Simulations Lab will offer advanced computing resources for computer simulations and theoretical modeling.

  8. What similar models to ASL are there in other parts of the country?

  Other prominent applied-science research organizations include:

  • The Desert Research Institute (DRI):http://www.dri.edu/
    The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is the nonprofit research campus of the University and Community College System of Nevada (UCCSN). DRI blends academia and entrepreneurship. More than 500 faculty, support staff, and students are engaged in an enterprise that generates approximately $45 million in annual revenue.
  • Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI): http://www.gtri.gatech.edu/
    The nonprofit applied-research arm of the Georgia Institute of Technology is located in Atlanta, GA. Approximately 1,200 employees perform or support more than $100 million in research yearly for more than 200 clients in industry and government.
  • Southwest Research Institute (SwRI):http://www.swri.edu
    Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is an independent, nonprofit applied research and development organization. Presently, the staff of 2,800 specializes in the creation and transfer of technology in engineering and the physical sciences. In 2003, the staff performed more than $350 million in contract research.
  • SRI International (Formerly the Stanford Research Institute):http://www.sri.com
    An independent, nonprofit research institute, SRI conducts contract R&D for government agencies, commercial businesses, foundations, and other organizations. As an independent institute, SRI International no longer compares directly with ASL; however, its origins were very similar to that of ASL. Moreover, Dr. Yogi Gupta worked for SRI for seven years before joining WSU.

  9. How does ASL differ from a Department of Energy National Laboratory?

  A system of 10 national laboratories supports the DOE’s Office of Science and Defense Programs. This network is the most comprehensive research system of its kind and conducts research critical to the national interest.

  These highly collaborative labs share facilities, equipment, and super-computers. Multi-disciplinary teams of scientists come together to perform research on energy, the environment and national defense.

  They do work which, for a variety of reasons, cannot be managed either by universities or the private sector. 

  The Institute for Shock Physics has strong partnerships with such Defense Program laboratories as Sandia, Livermore, and Los Alamos. It conducts research that is closely linked to national security.

  ASL will benefit from these relationships and will also have the flexibility to pursue contract work in the private sector.

   10. Why does ASL need an endowment?

  Grants and contracts are the major funding source for ASL activities, but permanent, independent funding will ensure our long-term viability.

  ASL is seeking donated funds to establish a $15 million endowment. Annually, 4% of the endowment investments will be expended to recruit and retain a team of world-class entrepreneurial scientists.  Permanent funding also will help fund personnel supported by outside contracts and who must devote all their efforts to the contract itself.

  Other essential costs, including costs associated with business development, administration and senior leadership, cannot be covered under grant or contract funding. Permanent independent funding will assure the sustainability of the organization itself.

  11. What kind of people will be hired with the endowment funding?

  We seek entrepreneurial scientists with strong records of program development, research accomplishments, and management. They will:

  • Develop new research programs that increase external support from federal, state, and private organizations
  • Recruit, supervise and guide the work of staff members 
  • Develop partnerships with Spokane-area business and academic organizations

  12. How many people will ASL hire with endowment funding?

  A $15 million endowment will allow us to hire six people. Three positions will be funded directly from the return on the endowment investments. Three additional positions will be funded through a WSU match. For every $3 million donated to the endowment, the university will provide a research faculty position.

  13. What is the fundraising timeline for the ASL endowment?

  We have start-up funds in the form of federal grants, which are have time limits. Our initial investment in personnel must be made within the established performance periods. As a result, the fundraising timeline is aggressive: We are committed to raise $15 million in three years.

  14. How much do you expect to bring in annually in contracts to ASL?

  Our initial measure of success will be the receipt of sizeable, competitive contract awards from federal agencies addressing strategic long-range needs. After three years of incubation, we expect annual awards of $3-5 million per year, and more than twice that after 10 years.

  15. How will ASL interact with other local academic institutions?

  We will encourage the research participation of faculty and students from other area academic institutions in Spokane.

  • Faculty from local universities may earn summer salary by participating in contract-funded research
  • Graduate students will have the opportunity to conduct their research at ASL
  • Undergraduates may apply for paid, part-time research positions and summer internships
  • ASL facilities may be used to provide services to research efforts at other institutions, such as materials characterization and/or computer simulation.

  16. Who will own the intellectual property created by ASL?

  The university's patent and copyright policies encourage an atmosphere conducive to research and development. They aim to:

  • Promote the progress of science and technology
  • Assure that discoveries and inventions are used to benefit the public
  • Provide appropriate royalty revenues to the University and the inventor(s).

  Intellectual property agreements are generally established at the time a research contract is negotiated. A system of incentives reward the creation of intellectual property

  The university normally retains patent rights from sponsored research; any invention or patentable idea conceived or reduced to practice in the course of that research belongs to the university. The university typically grants an option for an exclusive or non-exclusive license to resulting intellectual property.

  University rights to intellectual property and the rights of sponsors to license intellectual property are established in the Bayh-Dole Act of 1984 and the guidelines for federal grants.

  17. What mechanisms exist for licensing that property to allow for spin-offs of new private industries from the research?

  The Washington State University Research Foundation (WSURF) licenses technologies to the private sector. WSURF negotiates license fees, royalties, and the terms and conditions on a case-by-case basis.

  The determination of license fees and royalties are affected by several factors, including the:

  • Scope of the rights granted
  • Size of the potential market
  • Time and financial investment required by the licensee to bring a product to market

  Further information about licensing may be found at http://wsurf5.respark.wsu.edu/.

  In areas where:

  • The invention has been developed through research sponsored by a grant or contract with the federal government (or its agencies), it must be reported to the agency. The agency joins the university to determine:
  • Distribution of the rights in the invention
  • Whether patent prosecution should be sought
  • How the patent should be administered or disposed of in the public interest
  • Private industry or foundations have sponsored research, licensing of patents or other intellectual property shall be negotiated between the sponsor and the university, or its agent where appropriate. The university will strive to protect the financial interests of all and ensure that the university retains the traditions of self-governance and academic freedom.

  18. Will ASL earn revenues from licensing intellectual property?

  ASL will be eligible to earn monetary proceeds from commercialization of university-owned inventions. The WSU Research Foundation (WSURF) will collect and distribute royalties, fees, equity interests, or dividends in accordance with procedures established by the University. The revenue earned may be used to support ASL operations and facilities.

  19. Will ASL have a business manager and what will that person do?

  Contract research organizations that are affiliated with universities are often referred to as “buffer organizations,” as they operate in a manner that is between the traditional university structure and an independent, non-profit organization.

  As a result, ASL will have a business manager, who can:

  • Understand and capitalize on the benefits of being part of a university
  • Help operate ASL using an efficient business model
  • Develop partnerships with the private sector

  This business manager will hold a leadership/advisory position within ASL and will be supported by the ASL endowment.

   20. Will ASL have the capacity to spin off a “second ASL (ASL2)” which would function as an independent company?

  As has happened with other prominent contract-research organizations (SRI International separated from Stanford University in 1970), ASL could launch a new organization that would function as a private company.

  Such an initiative would be possible only once ASL is firmly established as a successful, self-sustaining research organization.

  Normally, WSURF would act as the agent on behalf of the university in such an endeavor, since WSU itself cannot take an equity or management position in a spin-off company.

  An “ASL2”-type organization might gain greater freedom to:

  • Enter into contracts at Cost Plus Fixed Fee for Services
  • Perform proprietary research for federal defense agencies
  • Employ staff more flexibly

  Since overhead costs associated with “ASL2” would be significantly higher than WSU overhead charges, other university-based contract-research laboratories would become major competitors for federal contracts. The launching of “ASL2” will be a business decision.

  21. Why should I donate to ASL?

  ASL offers many benefits to the community including, but not limited to:

  • Advancement of innovative research and relevant technology in the physical sciences and engineering
  • Positive economic impacts and visibility for Spokane and the region; and
  • University research and diversification to provide a strong base for economic growth.

  ASL also offers benefits to WSU including, but not limited to:

  • Visibility in applied research and technology
  • Potential for increasing graduate enrollment
  • A balanced research portfolio in Spokane
  • Increased revenue and the potential of technology transfer and IP license agreements from ASL projects

  Whether your interests are in the Spokane community, in engendering economic development, in encouraging the growth of intellectual capital and scientific exploration, or in supporting WSU as an institution, there are strong reasons for you to give to the ASL Endowment. Your contribution will help launch and sustain an exciting era for Spokane and Washington State University.

  22. How can I structure my gift? Can you accept appreciated stock?

  Each gift will be unique and we will work with you to structure your gift in a way that is most advantageous to you.

  You can structure your gift to be paid in a lump–sum payment or in payments made over 3-5 years. We are also able to accept and process gifts of appreciated stock.

  WSU will fully recognize all donors.

  Platinum Presidents Association

  Gifts of $10,000 or more accrue full benefits as a Platinum Presidents Associate for one year. Benefits Include:

  • Presidents Associates Newsletter;
  • Subscription to Washington State Magazine;
  • On-Campus Parking for Athletic and Other Events; and
  • Invitations to special events.

  Benefactor

  Gifts of $100,000 accrue the title of Benefactor and special recognition that goes with that designation.

  Laureate

   Gifts of $1,000,000 or more accrue the title of Laureate and special recognition that goes with that designation.