Georgia Institute of Technology is setting the pace for innovation in the U.S. Recent data from the National Science Foundation’s HERD Survey for 2024 shows Georgia Tech ranked second in the nation for federally sponsored research expenditures. This impressive ranking is a 70% jump from its 2019 figures, highlighting significant growth and achievement.
When looking at all external funding sources, including industry and foundations, Georgia Tech stands at sixth overall. Notably, it maintains the top spot among universities without a medical school, a remarkable feat given that medical institutions account for about a quarter of national research funding.
Tim Lieuwen, Georgia Tech’s Executive Vice President for Research, praised the efforts of faculty, staff, and students. He noted that this recognition underscores the trust federal agencies have in Georgia Tech’s ability to tackle pressing national issues through innovative research. “Our work doesn’t just advance knowledge — it saves lives, creates jobs, and strengthens national security,” he added.
Georgia as a whole is doing well too. The state ranks eighth for university research and development, crossing the $4 billion mark in total research expenditures for the first time. Georgia Tech alone contributed $1.5 billion, making it the largest contributor in the state. In just five years, federal funding for higher education research in Georgia surged by 46%, outpacing the national growth rate by ten percentage points.
Beyond funding, Georgia Tech is not just a leader in numbers but also in impact. The research capabilities here help foster innovation that affects lives globally. Studies show that university-led research plays a vital role in regional economies, leading to job creation and technological advancements.
The HERD Survey itself is an extensive annual review, examining research and development expenditures among U.S. colleges that spend at least $150,000 annually on R&D. The insights gathered help track where money is being directed and the types of research being pursued.
The Georgia Tech Research Institute and various interdisciplinary research centers under Tim Lieuwen’s leadership enhance the university’s ability to push boundaries and drive economic growth, showing that investment in education and research not only pays dividends in knowledge but also in societal advancements. For more on research statistics and impacts, you can check the official NSF HERD Survey.
