The National Science Foundation’s Higher Education and Research Development Survey for 2024 has ranked UNC ninth in the nation, up three spots from last year’s ranking. This year, research spending at the university totaled more than $1.55 billion. It’s the eighth straight year the school topped $1 billion.

“This achievement translates to greater impact for our state, from providing tailored health care treatments, to improving our understanding of the environment to building more resilient communities,” said chancellor Lee Roberts. “The growth of our research enterprise and the expertise of our faculty means that Carolina will continue solving our most critical challenges.”

The survey also ranked UNC fifth for health sciences research and third for social sciences research. UNC is the seventh-largest public research university overall, and 16 of the survey’s top 30 universities were public. UNC also ranks as the top research institution in the state of North Carolina. The survey evaluated more than 900 institutions nationwide.

“This significant milestone is a testament to the power of Carolina’s research enterprise,” said Penny Gordon-Larsen, UNC’s vice chancellor for research. “We are not only advancing knowledge but also improving lives, driving innovation and strengthening our economy. Breaking back into the top 10 of all U.S. institutions is a testament to the hard work and ingenuity of our faculty, staff and students.”

For a full look at the survey, click here.

 

Featured image via UNC-Chapel Hill/Jon Gardiner

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