COLUMBUS — A few years from now, Ohio could be known as center of research on human genetics, with scientists specializing in solving spinal injuries and curing stomach cancers.

        The state's top research analysts insist the potential for a vibrant biomedical industry already exists in Ohio, especially in fields like genomics and biomedical engineering. The key is and attracting new talent in those areas where Ohio already has a noteworthy reputation.

        So experts worry that lawmakers might eliminate state biomedical research funding over the next two years, damaging the fledgling industry and the reputation of Ohio's scientific community.

        Over the last two years the state has given more than $30 million to a special biomedical research fund to help spark research and business development. But $50 million promised over the next two years by state officials was cut in a Senate proposal to erase the state's $1.5 billion deficit.

        Supporters last week told a joint committee discussing a compromise budget to reinsert research money or risk damaging Ohio's chances to become a scientific leader.

        “This is a field that's growing rapidly, so it's easy to fall behind,” said Marc Cloutier, executive director of the biomedical research and technology transfer commission, charged with distribution of the state's research funds. “Research that might have been done here in the next two years will be done elsewhere.”

        On Dec. 14 the transfer commission will award the state's first round of grants. Already proposals have been received for gastrointestinal research and rehabilitation of tobacco-damaged organs.

        The state's $30 million pot, drawn from tobacco settlement money, lags far behind the nearly $500 million Ohio research facilities got in 2000 from the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation.

        But much of the state funds will help bring in matching grants from private companies, Mr. Cloutier said.

        Eric Cottington, vice president for research at Case Western Reserve University, said if Ohio is to embrace the biomedical industry, it needs the funding to recruit the rare top-notch scientists who can turn research into practical uses.

        Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce President Sally Jackson also pushed for biomedical research dollars, noting the tremendous boom matching research grants could mean to universities and businesses.

        “This shift sends exactly the wrong message to investors.”

        House and Senate leaders have not spoken out in opposition to the biomedical fund, but also haven't pledged any support in the face of the sizeable budget deficit.

        Mr. Cloutier said the loss of the state funds at worst leaves Ohio behind in the growing field.

        “It can send a message to researchers who might be coming here, and to the larger industry, that Ohio is not as interested in that field,” he said.

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