I really like the idea of project! I hope they are able to achieve the goals they have laid out. Linking research groups to each other in an easy platform will be good for all!
I am very new to this whole thing, but I do agree.
I do have one question though, that I thought of while reading the OP
If BTC really does have an end of the amount that can be mined. What happens to BTC when there is no more Money to be made by mining? Will it just be transaction fees? Who will keep updating the ledger once the profit of mining it disappears?