University of Wyoming Establishes Bitcoin Research Center

The University of Wyoming (UW) has launched the UW Bitcoin Research Institute, the first academic institution devoted solely to Bitcoin studies. 

Dr. Bradley Rettler, an Associate Professor of Philosophy and author of "Resistance Money: A Philosophical Case for Bitcoin," has been named the inaugural director. 

Rettler made the announcement on the Genesis Stage at the Bitcoin 2024 Conference in Nashville.

The institute’s mission is to advance the quality and influence of Bitcoin research by creating faculty positions dedicated to the field, incentivizing and rewarding exceptional academic work on Bitcoin, encouraging young scholars to engage in Bitcoin-related projects, and offering workshops on relevant papers and books. 

It will also facilitate connections among researchers with an interest in Bitcoin and provide peer-reviewed research for journalists, policymakers, and the general public.

Recognizing the current gaps in the academic study of Bitcoin, the institute aims to produce more accurate and rigorous research. 

It seeks to ensure that high-quality, evidence-based studies on Bitcoin are widely accessible.

UW is well-positioned to spearhead this initiative due to its interdisciplinary academic collaboration, proximity to renewable energy resources, and a supportive legislative and regulatory environment. 

The institute will work with various university departments, including philosophy, economics, the School of Computing, and the Center for Blockchain and Digital Innovation.

Supporters of this research may donate to the UW Bitcoin Research Institute. Donations are tax-deductible, and all Bitcoin donations will be held, according to the official page.