AMHERST (AP) – The University of Massachusetts could position itself as a contender in the stem cell research arena by developing a new system-wide institute to advance life sciences through human and animal research, according to a report to the university’s board of trustees.

The report proposes an Institute for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, The Republican of Springfield reported Tuesday. The university’s Amherst campus and its medical school in Worcester would serve as the core of the proposed center.

UMass trustees plan to discuss the proposal when they meet March 14 in Worcester. The report said the university should invest at least $66 million over six years to establish the center.

Harvard University already has decided to spend $50 million to create a committee to encourage scientific research across interdisciplinary lines.