The NDSU Development Foundation is seeking applications for the inaugural awarding of the Engebretson Family Research Fund. The fund is seeking proposals to aid in drug design and delivery research. Applications are encouraged from all colleges at the university. Total funds available for distribution for the 2012 academic year are $19,300.

Twins Duane and Glenn Engebretson were born in 1921 in Devils Lake, N.D. Their father, Elmer Engebretson, operated the Devils Lake Drug beginning in 1916 where both sons were employed, beginning at age 13, in the store’s soda fountain. Duane and Glenn followed in their father’s pharmacy footsteps, graduating in 1943 from the University of Minnesota with bachelor’s degrees in pharmacy. After their honorable discharges from the service in 1946, the brothers returned to North Dakota to work at Devils Lake Drug with their father, purchasing their father’s interest in the business in 1949 and operating the pharmacy for 23 years until their retirement.

Duane and Glenn, along with their late parents, Elmer and Ethel Engebretson, have long been supporters of NDSU. The intent of the family has been to catalyze collaborative drug design and development research toward improved drug therapies that enhance human health care.

Faculty and staff can access application forms at the Development Foundation’s website, www.ndsufoundation.com/grants.htm. The application deadline is Feb. 29. The NDSU Development Foundation will notify applicants of funding decisions prior to March 30.