Thirimachos Bourlai, assistant professor of computer science and electrical engineering at West Virginia University, is part of a team of researchers charged with finding new ways to strengthen national security through the development of biometric-based technologies. The new Borders, Trade, and Immigration Institute, a Center of Excellence housed at the University of Houston, was established with a $3.4 million grant from the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate, Office of University Programs. The Center includes researchers from 10 universities and a San Antonio, Texas-based consulting firm.