Unlocking Knowledge: The Importance of Research at Georgetown University

Research is at the core of Georgetown University. Throughout its long history, the university has contributed significantly across various fields. From developing life-saving vaccines to uncovering new cosmic substances, Georgetown researchers have made their mark.

Today, the university is breaking new ground in areas like biomedical technology and the study of microplastics. Scholars are also generating fresh insights in business, international relations, and the humanities.

In February, Georgetown received the R1 designation from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education for the 30th consecutive year. This award recognizes the top U.S. research universities for their “very high research activity.”

Jeff Urbach, a physicist and vice provost for research, sees research as vital to Georgetown’s mission. He explains, “It’s central to what our faculty does. Their research keeps them engaged and vital as scholars.” Urbach emphasized that social impact is a big part of their work, turning fundamental research into beneficial outcomes for society.

At the start of the new school year, Urbach and Anna Tate Riegel, vice president for research at the Georgetown University Medical Center, discussed the significance of research and how it shapes the future.

Urbach explained that research isn’t just about pushing boundaries; it’s also about educating the next generation. “Whether students go on to become scholars or venture into other fields, they carry the skills learned here into the world,” he noted.

Riegel added, “Research creates a mindset of inquiry. It pushes students to ask questions and explore where knowledge can go next.” This spirit of exploration is key to academia.

When discussing how academic research differs from private industry, Riegel stated, “Industry has its own aims. While some engage in academic inquiry, their focus isn’t on teaching or fostering critical thought. Our job as educators is to instill that mindset in students.”

Urbach reinforced this idea, saying, “Industries aim to produce products; universities push knowledge forward. That’s our role.”

Undergraduate and graduate students play an essential role in research at Georgetown. Urbach pointed out that students bring fresh perspectives. “New students are great at asking ‘why’ and challenging existing ideas. Research thrives on these interactions.”

Riegel, who has worked at institutions like the National Institutes of Health, noted, “Georgetown has a more personal and interactive atmosphere. This congenial environment fosters collaboration.”

Additionally, Georgetown’s Catholic and Jesuit values guide how research is conducted. Urbach said, “These values affect how we approach research, emphasizing ethical implications and our responsibilities as scientists.”

Riegel highlighted the importance of addressing health disparities in Washington, D.C., as a prime example of this commitment. “Georgetown researchers are attuned to local needs, reinforcing that knowledge doesn’t exist in a vacuum,” she said. This approach provides valuable lessons for both students and faculty.

Research is more than just an academic exercise at Georgetown; it’s a mission that shapes the future. By combining inquiry with ethical considerations, the university fosters an environment where knowledge meets social responsibility.

For further insights into Georgetown’s impact on health disparities research, check out the [Georgetown University Medical Center’s initiative](https://gumc.georgetown.edu/gumc-stories/discover-initiative-to-advance-research-on-health-disparities/).

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