U.S. Senator Katie Britt, R-Alabama, recently published a statement touting her work to secure $2 million for the Southern Research Institute through the 2026 Labor, Health, and Human Services, Education, and Related Industries, or LHHS, Appropriations Act.
“I’m proud to secure $2 million in funding for Southern Research to expand its biotechnology research equipment and capabilities,” Britt said. “As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I’m committed to ensuring taxpayer dollars are responsibly invested back into our communities, especially through initiatives that will strengthen our healthcare and research capabilities.”
“This strategic investment will help equip researchers with the tools they need to advance innovation, improve health outcomes, and keep Alabama at the forefront of biomedical research,” she added.
According to Britt’s office, the new funding will go toward upgrades for the Birmingham-based nonprofit’s laboratory infrastructure and equipment, allowing the institute to “strengthen key preclinical research capabilities, including advanced imaging, chemistry, pathology, and bioanalytical sciences.”
“It will position Southern Research Institute and the greater state of Alabama to play a leading role in biomedical innovation, national competitiveness, and will support our nation’s biosecurity and public health priorities,” Britt’s office stated.
Southern Research interim CEO Ray Watts thanked Britt for her work to secure the funding.
“Senator Britt’s longstanding commitment to supporting life-changing and life-saving biomedical research is well documented,” Watts said. “Southern Research is grateful for this important funding as we continue to modernize our ecosystem to bring new therapies to patients faster.”
The new funding for Southern Research is part of the more than $28 million Britt secured for Alabama through the 2026 LHHS Appropriations Act.
