R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-32-2: Duties of council.

It shall be the duty of the science and research council:

(1) To promote Rhode Island as a center for scientific research;

(2) To promote industrial research and research related to state institutions and health programs;

(3) To study and explore the areas in which government may expand its research facilities;

(4) To promote the utilization of available scientific facilities and personnel;

(5) To receive and administer research funds when made available by public or private sources and to plan for their use; provided, however, that any disbursement of one thousand dollars ($1,000) or more by the council shall be made only on the approval of the governor or the governor's designated agent;

(6) To formulate potential research projects;

(7) To provide facilities and liaison with federal research agencies;

(8) To cooperate with all institutions in this state for the purpose of developing and coordinating scientific research; and

(9) To advise the governor and the general assembly from time to time as to the status of scientific research in the state of Rhode Island and to make any recommendations as it may deem necessary.