NASA released a draft Statement of Work for public comment today for a proposed International Space Station Research Institute.

NASA seeks comments from industry, academia, organizations and individuals regarding contracting to a non-government organization to establish an Institute for International Space Station research management.

The purpose of the Institute is to promote research planning, coordination, and advocacy for maximum efficient and effective use of the International Space Station by the U.S. science, technology, and commercial communities. This draft Statement of Work will be followed by a draft Request for Proposals (RFP).

"We're enthusiastic about forging ahead with this unique opportunity to create a strong partnership with the user community for the International Space Station utilization process," said Mary Kicza, Associate Administrator, Office of Biological and Physical Research, NASA Headquarters. "We strongly encourage comments on the Statement Of Work from the users as well as potential offerors. These comments will influence our future direction," she said.

The Institute will support NASA in fostering cross- disciplinary, inter-agency, and international flight research programs. As part of its research leadership role, the Institute will be a strong advocate for Space Station research use to NASA, to the user community, and to the public, both national and international.

The Institute will provide a strong, centralized voice for the diverse Space Station user community and advocate for the community to the Station program and NASA. A release for RFP is scheduled for this fall, with a contract award expected in fall 2004.

To view the full draft Statement of Work on the Internet, visit: http://spaceresearch.nasa.gov/research_projects/ngo.html.