Show-Me State Times

The University of Missouri Board of Curators has formed the NextGen MURR Working Group, a strategic advisory body for the development of the NextGen MURR research reactor. This initiative was announced by Board Chair Todd Graves and President Mun Choi.

NextGen MURR is set to be an advanced nuclear research reactor aimed at reinforcing Missouri's role in cancer-fighting medical isotope research and production. The project will increase the university's capacity to produce these isotopes, which are essential in medications used by over 500,000 cancer patients annually.

Chair Graves expressed commitment to the project during a Board meeting in St. Joseph, Missouri. "We are committed to NextGen MURR, and we know that this transformative project will produce more medical isotopes, saving the lives of cancer patients in Missouri, across the country and around the world," he stated. He emphasized its potential as an economic driver for both Missouri and the nation.

President Mun Choi added, "NextGen MURR is a critical initiative that will improve lives and create opportunities in Missouri and beyond." He highlighted the working group's role in providing expert vision and support for achieving their goals.

Recently, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe and the General Assembly allocated $50 million towards the project's design and construction. This follows an agreement with a consortium of companies launched in April to begin initial design studies.

The working group will oversee strategy and execution for developing NextGen MURR. Blaine Luetkemeyer will chair this group with John Raines participating as a board representative.

Members include:

- Blaine Luetkemeyer, Chair

- John Raines

- Matt Sanford

- Michael Hoehn II

- Dale Klein

- Chris Critch

- Steve Laflin

- Bob Reymond

- Kevin Hogg

- John Brockman

- Dustin Schnieders

- Meichele Foster

- Mark Menghini