Southern Research to expand impact with federal funds from Sen. Britt
Birmingham, Ala. – Southern Research is set to increase its capabilities across multiple scientific disciplines thanks to $2 million in federal funding secured through U.S. Sen. Katie Britt.
The funds for Southern Research are among $28.63 million in congressionally directed spending secured by Sen. Britt as part of a fiscal 2026 appropriations bill.
“We couldn’t be more grateful for Sen. Britt’s support of Southern Research,” said Harry Ledebur Jr., Ph.D, the chief operating officer of Southern Research. “This investment will help us grow our ability to support biomedical innovation while strengthening the nation’s life sciences infrastructure.”
For more than eight decades, Southern Research has played a key role in advancing scientific discovery and helping translate promising ideas into real‑world health solutions. The federal funding will support upgrades to research equipment across cancer research, pathology, chemistry, and related disciplines, enabling Southern Research to take on more complex and impactful work. The investment will also enhance Southern Research’s capacity to evaluate a broader range of potential therapies, helping scientists throughout the world move promising concepts forward more efficiently and effectively.
“These upgrades are critical components of Southern Research’s strategic plan and will significantly expand our reach and impact over the next five years,” Ledebur said. “In addition to accelerating scientific progress, this investment will create economic benefits for Alabama by supporting high‑skill jobs and strengthening the region’s biotechnology ecosystem.”
About Southern Research: Founded in Birmingham in 1941, Southern Research is a nonprofit scientific research organization that employs 200 scientists and professional staff. In its more than 80-year legacy of moving science, Southern Research has been on the forefront of transformative research on cancer, infectious diseases and other illnesses. Visit southernresearch.org for more information.