UVM research funding hits all time high

UVM’s research funding hit a historical all-time high in the last fiscal year, with faculty pulling in $227 million in extramural support, according to a Sept. 23 press release. 

This record level of research funding surpassed the previous high of 181.7 million in 2020 by a wide margin, which in turn overtook the previous year’s numbers by $37.4 million, according to the press release. This continued surge aligns with UVM’s strategic vision, “Amplifying Our Impact.” 

Although research awards were spread among at least six of UVM’s other colleges, the Larner College of Medicine obtained the largest number of grants, according to the press release. 

“It’s gratifying to see the investments […] paying dividends so quickly,” said Kirk Dombrowski, vice president for research. “Our success in attracting this funding is a reflection on the quality of our faculty, staff and students and also a clear indication of the important role UVM plays in economic development for the region.” 

In addition to the federal funding that spurred these successes, the University also saw an uptick in monetary research support from foundations and industry, as well as from donors who committed nearly $25 million in gifts over the past two years, according to the press release. 

Faculty members also won 26 grants worth $1 million or more to fund research topics such as global infectious disease, brain health, children’s health, military veteran support and resilience-building following extreme weather events. 

Additionally, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences established the Food Systems Research Center in June with the help of $11 million from the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and other supporters, according to a June 18 UVM Communications article. 

“UVM has made tremendous strides as a hub of advanced research over the past year,” stated UVM President Suresh Garimella. “The growth in our research portfolio benefits Vermont […] acting as a magnet for talent moving into Vermont and spurring the type of innovation that can attract entrepreneurs and other forms of financial investment.”