Arizona State University (ASU) has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing $1 billion in annual research funding for the first time. This accomplishment positions ASU among the top 4% of research institutions in the United States, according to the latest data from the National Science Foundation’s Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) survey. The total research expenditures for fiscal year 2024 reached $1.003 billion, reflecting an eightfold increase since Michael Crow became ASU’s president in 2002.
ASU’s ranking of 37th overall in research expenditures places it ahead of notable institutions such as Michigan State University, Purdue University, and the University of Chicago. Among public universities, ASU ranks 21st, surpassing respected peers like Indiana University and Rutgers University. Additionally, ASU is noted for its strong performance among institutions without a medical school, ranking 5th in this category, ahead of the University of Colorado-Boulder and Princeton.
Commitment to Innovation and Community Impact
The recent achievements are a testament to ASU’s dedication to transforming research into practical applications that benefit society. President Crow emphasized the university’s mission, stating, “Surpassing $1 billion in research expenditures underscores our unwavering commitment to be a new gold standard of service to the community, our state and our nation.”
ASU has consistently ranked first in innovation for the past 11 years, according to U.S. News & World Report. It has also been recognized as the top institution in the U.S. for its global impact related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals for six consecutive years, as reported by Times Higher Education. In 2023, ASU’s research capabilities were further acknowledged with an invitation to join the prestigious Association of American Universities, which represents the nation’s leading research universities.
The HERD survey, conducted annually, collects data on research expenditures from numerous institutions across the country. Although this year’s survey reflects data collected over a year and a half ago, it highlights the ongoing growth in federal funding for universities, including ASU, which attracts resources from federal agencies, state and local governments, businesses, and philanthropic organizations.
ASU’s Diverse Research Portfolio
Sally C. Morton, executive vice president of ASU Knowledge Enterprise, noted that ASU’s diverse funding sources help support various research initiatives that aim to deliver substantial community benefits. “Our rapid growth and achieving the $1 billion milestone reflects their confidence in our ability to deliver valuable results,” Morton said.
ASU ranked 14th in funding from the National Science Foundation, ahead of institutions like Caltech and Georgia Tech, and 10th in NASA expenditures, surpassing MIT and UCLA. The university also ranked 10th in funding from state and local governments.
The HERD survey also highlights ASU’s strong performance across various academic disciplines. The university ranked 1st in anthropology and in non-science and engineering fields, and 2nd in education and visual and performing arts. Additionally, ASU ranked among the top five institutions in several other disciplines, including business management and social sciences.
ASU’s ability to attract top talent is evident, boasting six Nobel laureates and over 300 Fulbright U.S. Scholars among its faculty. These esteemed educators work closely with students, providing opportunities for hands-on research experiences. Currently, 3,695 students hold paid research positions, equipping them with vital skills for their future careers.
The impact of ASU’s research extends beyond academia. ASU researchers are utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance healthcare delivery worldwide. For instance, the team developed an AI tool, HLA-Inception, which decodes immune system responses to potential threats, paving the way for more personalized cancer therapies. Another AI application, Ark+, accurately interprets chest X-rays, improving diagnostic accuracy and accessibility for underserved communities.
ASU also addresses environmental challenges through innovative research. A team is working on fishing gear designed to protect endangered species while supporting the livelihoods of local fishing communities. Field tests of modified fishing nets have shown a 63% reduction in non-target captures, benefiting both fishers and marine wildlife.
In addition, ASU’s YouthMappers initiative involves students creating open-access geographic maps that assist local communities in addressing critical issues. Their projects have highlighted heat-related deaths in Arizona and contributed to pedestrian safety improvements in urban areas.
ASU’s research endeavors are forward-thinking, with initiatives focused on national priorities such as food as medicine, ensuring a steady supply of critical minerals, and exploring the potential of quantum science. Morton emphasized the importance of aligning research with community needs, stating, “Research is essential to the thriving future we envision and the goals we all share.”
As ASU continues to pursue innovative solutions, the university remains committed to fostering collaboration between researchers, students, and the community, ensuring that their work translates into meaningful impacts across Arizona and beyond.
