NEWARK, March 10--The first on-line annual report of its kind (www.njit.edu/annualreport2003) was published this month by New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), the nation's perennially most-wired university. "It is an appropriate achievement for this university, one which will dramatically increase state and national awareness of NJIT's role in technological research, education, and economic development. Produced by NJIT staff, this model demonstrates that greater reach and cost savings are not mutually exclusive goals," said Jean Llewellyn, executive director of University Communications at NJIT.

Report highlights include:

• NJIT researchers in disciplines ranging from mathematics to mechanical engineering are finding technologies to be used in biomedical projects ranging from stem cell research to improvements in diabetic vision care. For example, a team of biomedical researchers from NJIT and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, led by Richard Greene, M.D., Becton-Dickinson professor of biomedical engineering, at NJIT, is developing medical devices to prevent blindness in patients with eye diseases. One device will enable diabetics to test their glucose levels in their eye fluid. The device, implanted in eyeglass frames, would eliminate finger sticks – now used by most diabetics.



• The report touts new emerging technology trends such as nanotechnology. An associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, Leonid, Tysbeskov, Ph.D., who was recently elected a Fellow of the American Physical Society, is creating a new generation of computer chips that are just a few atoms in size. One day such chips will enable manufacturers to produce slimmer, even smaller computers and other related hardware.



• Another emerging technology trend involves researchers at NJIT’s Polymer Processing Institute. The scientists are studying comparisons of the environmental impact during manufacturing of polymer coatings. Manufacturers want this information because polymer coatings can prevent corrosion on factory equipment. Other areas of interest include improving the natural and built environment and information technology.



• NJIT has long been an engine spurring economic growth within not only Newark, but also the state. The report outlines the latest economic programs undertaken to foster widespread economic development. One outreach program, the Center for Manufacturing Systems, last year streamlined machinery for factory owners in Paterson, Jersey City, Elizabeth and other urban centers introducing newer and more effective computer-driven technology. Not only were jobs saved, but also profits increased.



• The section on workforce development explains unique educational programs. FEMME, a summer outreach program, now entering its 22nd year at NJIT, introduces the world of science and engineering to disadvantaged elementary and middle school girls.



• NJIT is in the forefront of homeland security sharing joint research projects with operations of the Department of Defense (DOD) located in New Jersey. An $8.3 million DOD grant will create an electronically charged smarter coating for military vehicles. The paint, when completed, will be able heal itself plus change colors. Picatinny Arsenal, Rockaway Township, is partnering with NJIT on the project.

To learn more about the research or the online annual report, contact Sheryl Weinstein at 973-596-3436.

NJIT is a public, scientific and technological research university enrolling more than 8,800 students. The university offers bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees to students in 80 degree programs throughout its six colleges: Newark College of Engineering, New Jersey School of Architecture, College of Science and Liberal Arts, School of Management, Albert Dorman Honors College and College of Computing Sciences. The division of continuing professional education offers adults eLearning, off campus degrees and short courses. Expertise and research initiatives include architecture and building science, applied mathematics, biomedical engineering, environmental engineering and science, information technology, manufacturing, materials, microelectronics, multimedia, telecommunications, transportation and solar astrophysics. Yahoo! Internet Life magazine cites NJIT as a "perennially most wired" university.

Contact Information:

Sheryl Weinstein Public Relations (973) 596-3436

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