UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – Penn State’s research expenditures exceeded the $1 billion mark in fiscal year 2019-20. The total figure, $1.01 billion, places Penn State among a select group of research universities nationally, and reflects the interdisciplinary strength built over three decades. It represents a $40 million increase over last year’s number, and includes a record $633 million in federal funding, as well as $375 million from a combination of private funders, the commonwealth of Pennsylvania and University sources.
“This milestone reflects both the strength of external support for the University’s research activity and the broad impact of that activity on solving complex societal problems,” said Penn State President Eric J. Barron. “From advancing health, to addressing food security and sustainable energy solutions, to contributing to economic development, Penn State’s research enterprise is dedicated to improving the overall quality of life for people in our communities, our nation and our world.”
“It’s a testament to the world-class quality and teamwork of our dedicated faculty, students and staff, and a statement of our continuing commitment,” said Senior Vice President for Research Lora Weiss. “These expenditures also reflect the continued confidence our sponsors have in us and the extensive breadth and depth of our research portfolio.” In the most recent NSF HERD (Higher Ed R&D) expenditures report, she noted, Penn State had 18 research fields ranked in the top 10, more than any other university.
Funding from federal agencies accounts for the entirety of the $40 million increase, with $35 million in additional funding coming from the Department of Defense, $9 million from the Department of Health and Human Services, and $3.5 million from the Department of Energy. Research funding from the commonwealth of Pennsylvania decreased from $73 million to $68 million, while funding from industry, foundations and other sponsors held steady at $101 million.
The largest single increase came from the Department of Defense, with a grant of $30 million to lead the Interaction of Ionizing Radiation with Matter University Research Alliance, focused on improving current and developing future warfighter technology to counter threats of destruction.