Purdue asks for life‑sciences research building and $25M Indiana Innovation Fund pilot to secure federal and private projects

President Mung Chiang (transcript: President Chang) described Purdue’s growth in enrollment, research and industry partnerships and outlined four strategic initiatives: Indianapolis campus expansion, the Daniels School of Business, Purdue Compute (quantum/physical AI/semiconductors) and a One Health initiative. He asked the Legislature to fund a Life Sciences Research Building (wet labs) estimated at $160 million; Purdue would contribute at least $70 million through university reserves and philanthropy. The facility would support drug discovery, comparative oncology and onshoring of pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Chiang also sought a $25 million pilot for an Indiana Innovation Fund to give the state a flexible, non‑cash contingency to help win competitive federal and private awards (Purdue described the fund as used only if the university or region wins competitions and would not be drawn unless needed). He noted recent federal hub wins tied to regional economic development and said state partnership is key to attracting large industry investments, including semiconductor and life‑sciences projects.

Committee members asked questions about enrollment, in‑state admissions, and how Purdue’s projects fit with statewide economic development. Chiang emphasized stability of tuition, record applications and that Purdue admits a higher share of in‑state applicants than many peers; he also described plans for semiconductors and workforce development tied to the requested capital and pilot funds.