Tex. Educ. Code § 142.002

The Norman Hackerman advanced research program is established to encourage and provide support for basic research conducted by faculty members and students in astronomy, atmospheric science, biological and behavioral sciences, chemistry, computer sciences, earth sciences, engineering, information science, mathematics, material sciences, oceanography, physics, environmental issues affecting the Texas-Mexico border region, the reduction of industrial, agricultural, and domestic water use, social sciences, and related disciplines in eligible institutions.