University Park

Case Studies

Enhancing Faculty Research: Dr. Bill Neumann

Dr. Bill Neumann, an assistant professor of medicinal chemistry at the SIUE School of Pharmacy, is spearheading critical research into the transition from acute to chronic pain. Operating out of his specialized laboratory in University Park, Neumann is utilizing a nearly $1 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to pioneer new methods of pain management.

Collaboration and Innovation

The project is a multidisciplinary effort, bridging the gap between institutions and scientific fields.

• Partnership: Collaborative work with the Saint Louis University Department of Pharmacology and Physiology.
• The Team: A diverse group of researchers specializing in medicinal chemistry, organic chemistry, chemical biology, and bioinorganic chemistry.
• The Goal: To design and synthesize novel probes that could lead to drug candidates capable of managing chronic pain without the debilitating side effects associated with current therapies.

The Impact of University Park

Neumann credits the unique environment of University Park as a primary catalyst for his team's success.

"Being here has allowed me to occupy and effectively use excellent lab space that simply is not available anywhere on campus," Neumann explained. "If it was not for the Park, I would not have been able to conduct the research I’m currently involved in."

The facility’s proximity to the School of Pharmacy provides the team with immediate access to essential resources, including high-tech equipment and a pipeline of talented SIUE students.

NCERC at SIUE: A Global Hub for Biofuel Innovation

Since its inception over a decade ago, The NCERC at SIUE has evolved into a world-class center for advancing biofuels. Its success as a leader in renewable energy is driven by three core strengths:

1. Physical Flexibility: A versatile facility designed for rapid adaptation.
2. Academic Synergy: A direct connection to the expertise of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
3. Client Confidentiality: The ability to conduct groundbreaking private-sector research in a secure, anonymous environment.

The Fermentation Suite: From Waste to Fuel

A major highlight of the center is its state-of-the-art fermentation suite. Under the leadership of Dr. Sabrina Trupia, Assistant Director of Research, the NCERC has successfully produced ethanol from corn kernel fiber.

• Impact: This patent-pending research could be adopted by over 200 ethanol plants nationwide.
• Classification: Supported by the EPA’s proposal to classify corn-kernel-fiber ethanol as an advanced biofuel.

Scalability and Versatility

In 2009, the NCERC team took the initiative to create a small-scale, multifunctional lab. This space allows researchers and private clients to run trials on batches ranging from 30 liters to 1,500 liters before moving to mass production.

“The fermentation suite allows us to do grant-funded research while simultaneously conducting contractual work,” says Center Director John Caupert. “We literally cover every step of the advanced biofuels production process. No one else in the world can do that.”

Professional Growth: Building the Region

Juneau Associates, Inc., P.C. proves that University Park is an ideal home for established firms looking to expand. Since moving to the Park 16 years ago, this award-winning engineering and land surveying firm has become a staple of the local economy.

• The Talent Pipeline: Charlie Juneau actively recruits from the SIUE School of Engineering. Currently, 10 of his 43 employees are SIUE graduates.
• Local Impact: The firm has led high-profile projects right in our backyard, including the Madison County Bike Trails and structural reviews for MetroLink.

"The ability to interact with the University and the students was a big attraction for us. These students bring an energy and creativity to our projects." — Charlie Juneau