The interdisciplinary institute is the first initiative of its size and scope. It is being created with a $20 million gift from the estate of philanthropist and entrepreneur Kirk Kerkorian.
The gift will help bridge the so-called “valley of death” in laboratory research, when lack of funding prevents promising discoveries from reaching clinical trials.
The bequest by Sidney Roberts and Clara Szego Roberts reflects the couple’s backgrounds — both benefited from college scholarships — and their passion for science and the arts.
The donation establishes the Doumani Research Innovation Fund, which will support translating scientific discoveries into new treatments for people with cancer.
The foundation, established in 1954 by the founder of Superior Oil, is one of the most prolific funders of scientific, engineering and biomedical research.
25 undergraduates who received the scholarships to pursue science, technology, engineering or math degrees visited the cast and crew as the show wraps its final season.
The top ranking reflected a record-breaking fiscal year for the campus during which the Centennial Campaign for UCLA surpassed its $4.2 billion goal ahead of schedule.