UNM researchers aim to tackle big challenges in New Mexico

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The University of New Mexico is bringing researchers and scholars together as part of an effort to address some of New Mexico's most pressing issues.
The school said Monday that the focus of the Grand Challenges initiative will include substance abuse, aging and water resources.
The challenges were selected from 14 proposals, representing 160 faculty and staff from over 60 departments across the university.
University President Garnett Stokes says each one represents a unique opportunity to serve New Mexico. She says the issues require a collaborative approach to research and scholarship that spans fields of study as well as generations, cultures and perspectives.
More than 20 other public research institutions have similar initiatives aimed at using their research power to benefit the societal and economic health of their communities.