"We understand the importance of supporting scientific endeavors and heritage around the world," said Dr. Raymond R. Sackler. "Our hope is that the new Raymond and Beverly Sackler USA-UK Scientific Forum will help the scientific leadership of the United Kingdom and the United States forge an enduring and productive partnership on pressing topics of worldwide scientific concern with benefit to all people."

 

Raymond Sackler, M.D., is a founder and board member of Purdue Pharma L.P., Stamford, Conn., and a founder and board member of NAPP Pharmaceutical Group Limited in the U.K.

 

"Science is more and more an international undertaking," said NAS President Ralph J. Cicerone. "Engaging the best scientific minds and research from around the world is key to addressing worldwide challenges such as agriculture, our energy needs, and climate change. We thank Raymond and Beverly Sackler for their foresight in opening new pathways to speed our work."

 

"Increasing international scientific links is an important goal of the Royal Society's 350th anniversary campaign," noted Martin Rees, president of the Royal Society. "The Raymond and Beverly Sackler USA-UK Scientific Forum will provide a marvellous ongoing connection between the scientific leadership in America and Britain. The Royal Society greatly appreciates the generosity and vision of Raymond and Beverly Sackler in endowing this program, and we look forward to working closely with the National Academy of Sciences into the future."

 

The Royal Society is the national academy of science for the United Kingdom and Commonwealth. Founded in 1660, the Society has three roles: as the U.K. academy of science, as a learned society, and as a funding agency. 

 

The National Academy of Sciences was chartered by an act of Congress signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863 to "investigate, examine, experiment, and report on any subject of science or art" when called on by the federal government.