The Critical Role of University Research: Funding, Challenges, and Impact

This week on EJB Talks dean Stuart Shapiro and Associate Dean of Research Clint Andrews discuss the vital role federal-funded university research plays in complementing education, driving innovation, and solving real-world problems. Clint highlights why government funding is essential, as much research benefits society beyond what private entities can support. He also explains how cuts to indirect cost reimbursements of university research funding could lead to not only tuition hikes and reduced services, but also the loss of academic talent if it is coupled with the country closing its borders and weakened U.S. global competitiveness. He closes the discussion by illustrating the positive impact of federal funding, sharing a recently completed National Science Foundation project on micromobility safety that led to practical urban planning and technology collaboration and innovations.