Research, training, and service activities related to solid and hazardous waste management conducted by The University of North Carolina shall be coordinated by the Board of Governors of The University of North Carolina through the Office of the President.  Proposals for research contracts and grants; public service assignments; and responses to requests for information and technical assistance by the State and units of local government, business, and industry shall be addressed by a formal process involving an advisory board of university personnel appointed by the President and chaired and directed by an individual appointed by the President.  The Board of Governors of The University of North Carolina shall consult with the Department in developing the research programs and provide the Department with a copy of the proposed research program for review and comment before the research is undertaken.  Research contracts shall be awarded to independent nonprofit colleges and universities within the State which are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools on the same basis as those research contracts awarded to The University of North Carolina.  Research activities shall include the following areas:

(1) Methods and processes for recycling solid and hazardous waste;

(2) Methods of treatment for detoxifying hazardous waste; and

(3) Technologies for disposing of solid and hazardous waste. (1989, c. 784, s. 2.)