Ohio State reports a record $1.68 billion in research and development

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Ohio State reports a record $1.68 billion in research and development

University expenditures grew 6% year over year

A record $1.68 billion in research and development expenditures - that's the new number presented today by The Ohio State University for fiscal year 2025.

"This extraordinary achievement is a clear signal that public and private partners trust that when they invest in Ohio State innovation, they'll get results," President Walter "Ted" Carter Jr. said in announcing the new figures.

"Most impressive is what these dollars buy: life-changing discoveries, economic growth and healthier communities in every corner of our state. I'm incredibly proud of the scholars whose creativity and drive for excellence is making our record-setting success possible. They're proving every day that Ohio State is a true academic powerhouse."

The university's expenditures grew 6% year over year, extending record-breaking annual increases and continuing Ohio State's growth trajectory. More than just a number, the university's research enterprise powers discoveries that save lives and strengthen communities.

Across 15 colleges, Ohio State scholars are supporting life-saving advances in diagnosing and treating patients, developing cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions, shaping the future of food and agriculture, elevating arts and humanities scholarship, improving economic opportunity, and unlocking the power of artificial intelligence. This collective impact reflects the breadth and depth of a research community committed to discovery, creativity and real-world problem-solving.

"This year's record research expenditures reflect the bold ideas, relentless curiosity, and collaborative spirit that define Ohio State's research and innovation community," said John M. Horack, vice president for research. "These results are a direct testament to the dedication of our faculty, staff, students and partners who push the boundaries of discovery every day."

More than $797 million in research funding came from the university's federal partners, a 3% increase from the previous year. Some highlights include nearly $420 million from the National Institutes of Health - a 5% increase - and $83.8 million from the Department of War, an increase of 12%. Funding from NASA increased 15% to $10.1 million.

The university's industry-sponsored research grew 10% to $174.8 million. Partnerships between Ohio State and business leaders like Honda help develop breakthroughs in battery technology. Starlab Space LLC and the university continue to explore innovations in commercial space and low-earth orbit across disciplines that include materials science, human health and performance, agriculture, microbiology, and more. The Nationwide Center for Advanced Customer Insights, housed in the Fisher College of Business, enhances understanding of consumer behavior with support from Nationwide Insurance.

Ohio State continues to place among the nation's top-tier research universities. The new National Science Foundation Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) survey rankings for fiscal year 2024 placed Ohio State 12th nationally among all universities for total research expenditures - above esteemed research programs at Harvard, Duke and Yale.

The Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge, with support from the university's colleges, tracks annual research and development funding. The combined total of federal, state, industry and institutional support measures the resources available for innovative scientific research and creative expression.

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