The University of Louisville has once again been named a top U.S. research institution. 

The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, recently finalized, once more has  designated UofL a “Research 1” doctoral university with very high research activity. UofL is one of only 146 universities – roughly 4% of those considered – to receive this designation.  

“UofL is a research powerhouse, and our consistent Research 1 designation is proof-positive of that fact,” said Interim President Lori Gonzalez. “Our strength and growth in research is made possible by our faculty and staff, and their work to expand knowledge and tackle the grand challenges impacting the human condition.”  

In the past fiscal year, 2020-2021, UofL brought in a record $201.5 million in competitive research funding and had $200.4 million in expenditures. That funding supported groundbreaking research to address the biggest global problems of our time, including climate change and providing robotic solutions for manufacturing, health care and logistics challenges. 

“Carnegie R1 status is highly competitive and is evidence of our dedication and commitment to research and graduate education,” said Kevin Gardner, UofL’s executive vice president for research and innovation. “This continued designation shows our commitment to ensuring the work we do here at UofL has an impact here in our community and beyond.” 

In addition to being a Research 1 institution, UofL also holds the Carnegie community-engaged designation, which recognizes institutions that work with community partners to exchange knowledge and resources for public benefit. UofL is one of just 79 U.S. institutions to hold both designations. 

UofL’s dedication to community-engaged research has been especially apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, when UofL researchers partnered with the community to lead widespread testing, develop and implement innovative wastewater monitoring methods, and further products that address the long-term health, economic and societal problems caused by the virus.  

“Not only are we expanding the horizons of what’s considered possible,” Gardner said, “but we’re working hand-in-hand with our partners to use that knowledge to the benefit of our community. This is research with a reason; it’s innovation with impact.”