New York State will provide $50 million in capital funding to expand the RNA Institute at the State University of New York at Albany. The investment, part of SUNY’s 2025-2026 capital budget, is aimed at increasing research and training capacity in the Life Sciences Research Building. The expansion will support the institute’s work in drug discovery, including projects that use artificial intelligence.
Governor Kathy Hochul said, “Identifying new ways to attack deadly and debilitating diseases will not only ensure the State University of New York at Albany is at the cutting edge of research and technology, it will help New Yorkers live longer, more fulfilling and healthier lives. This is an investment in a better future, and it is being developed right here in New York. I am proud to announce this historic investment, and I thank the University for the lifesaving and life-affirming work its researchers do.”
The RNA Institute focuses on basic research to understand, diagnose, and treat diseases such as ALS, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, and myotonic dystrophy.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. commented on the importance of state support: “While the federal government is retreating from its historic role spurring cutting-edge academic research, SUNY is on the move and deeply thankful for the commitment and financial support of our Governor and the State Legislature to equip our researchers and students with state-of-the art facilities and resources to drive innovation. The State University of New York at Albany’s RNA Institute is one of SUNY’s premiere research institutions, and we are excited for this investment into the institute so the State University of New York at Albany can continue leading the way in RNA research.”
The SUNY Board of Trustees added: “This investment into the State University of New York at Albany’s RNA Institute will advance the institute’s world-class research capabilities, and cement New York as a leader in RNA research. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her support of research at SUNY, and commitment to investing in the health and well-being of humanity.”
State University of New York at Albany President Havidán Rodríguez noted that “UAlbany’s RNA Institute is world-renowned for pioneering new approaches to biomedical research, using artificial intelligence to develop innovative technologies and treatments that can help people live longer, healthier lives. With Governor Hochul’s generous $50 million investment in the Life Sciences Research Building, the RNA Institute will be able to expand and enhance its research capacity, providing state-of-the-art facilities for researchers and hands-on training for the next generation of New York’s workforce — establishing the University and the Capital Region as a leader in RNA science and biotechnology.”
The construction funding will be used for several upgrades:
– Renovating existing labs with new instruments; expanding lab space by about 20,000 square feet.
– Creating a facility with preclinical development space for biosafety testing as well as pilot Good Manufacturing Practice manufacturing.
– Providing dedicated areas for artificial intelligence-based health research.
– Adding interactive educational spaces for community engagement.
Empire State Development President Hope Knight said investments like these strengthen both scientific leadership in life sciences fields as well as workforce growth within biotechnology sectors.
Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald stated: “This investment will help researchers find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat serious diseases that affect so many New Yorkers. By expanding the RNA Institute, we’re supporting innovation, discovery and the training of our future health and science leaders. I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to advancing research that improves health and strengthens communities across our state.”
Greg Olsen from NYS Office for Aging described how advances from such institutes could benefit older adults by addressing conditions linked with aging.
Industry representatives also responded positively: Win Thurlow (LifeSciencesNY) called it a transformative step; Christos Kyratsous (Regeneron) pointed out its potential impact on medicine development; Jamie Grabowski (Curia) highlighted benefits for regional excellence.
Several legislators praised both state leadership involvement—especially Governor Hochul—and university achievements through recent breakthroughs such as improved sequencing methods or drug delivery innovations.
Local officials echoed their appreciation regarding continued public funding toward scientific advancement despite federal policy changes.
As part of this initiative, UAlbany will undergo rebranding efforts aligned with SUNY system-wide identity strategies.
Last year alone saw $15.8 million awarded through grants from sources including state agencies as well as national institutions like NIH or NSF—supporting faculty work ranging from computational modeling projects on campus to broader education efforts designed around developing biotechnology talent pipelines statewide.
