UofM Secures Institutional Record $86M in Awards for FY23 

Sept. 5, 2023 — The University of Memphis is proud to announce its unprecedented achievement of $86 million in research awards in FY23, setting a new record high for the institution. This remarkable feat, which significantly surpassed the previous record of $50 million, is the direct result of the University’s strategic efforts to foster a thriving research environment. 

Building upon its Carnegie R1 status attained in 2022, the University has relentlessly strived to maintain its position as a leading academic institution nationwide. 

“The record-breaking performance is a reflection of the high-quality research ecosystem that our university has cultivated,” said UofM President Dr. Bill Hardgrave. “Our 72% increase in research awards from last year to this year is remarkable and could not have been accomplished without a culture that values researcher-led growth. As we move forward with direction from our new strategic plan, Ascend, we will continue to further push and nurture our impressive research efforts.”  

Over the past five years, the University has seen a 273% increase in the total awards earned. For two consecutive years, the UofM has seen a surge in first-time principal investigators, with more than 40 researchers now seeking funding to conduct their groundbreaking work. Every dollar earned by the University is reinvested back into the community. Collaborators receive resources directly through grants, and the wider economy of the region is bolstered through the UofM’s presence and partnership.  

Other key highlights showing the growth over the last five years:  

“I am truly appreciative of all the hard work and innovative efforts of our faculty researchers and students on campus,” said Dr. Jasbir Dhaliwal, professor and executive vice-president of Research & Innovation. “They have truly embraced the responsibility that, besides knowledge dissemination, research universities must be bold in leading knowledge creation to advance scientific progress that benefits human development and living standards.”    

The University's remarkable achievements in research and impact reflect its ongoing commitment to growth and outreach, exemplifying its status as a leading Tennessee flagship institution. The UofM remains steadfast in its dedication to benefiting not only its own community but also extending its influence on a regional and global scale.