CA SB836

Requests the University of California Regents to establish the California Blueprint for Research to Advance Innovations in Neuroscience (Cal-BRAIN) program to leverage federal BRAIN Initiative funding and accelerate brain mapping technology development.

Program goals include maintaining California's neuroscience leadership, developing a dynamic map of the human brain, expanding the state's biotechnology and high technology sectors, and training next-generation neuroscience scientists and engineers.

Requests UC to convene stakeholders from public and private research institutions, national laboratories, biotechnology companies, and venture capital firms to develop a governing structure for the program.

Governing structure shall adopt a research plan with milestones, establish competitive merit-based funding opportunities, maintain flexibility for priority adjustments, establish a technology transfer program for commercializing discoveries, and solicit non-state funding with a goal of matching state investment.

Requests UC to provide program information through an Internet website, including descriptions of funded projects and activities; implementation contingent on adequate appropriations to the University of California.