Research that works for you — and the world
Improving lives
Powering progress
Advancing humanity
Within the University of Illinois System, research is a public duty and a calling to serve
Illinois, the
nation, and the world.
Our $1.2 billion research enterprise fuels breakthroughs that matter — from faster diagnoses
and cleaner
energy to resilient infrastructure and a stronger economy. At its core, research sparks discoveries that
ripple outward, improving daily life across the globe and helping solve urgent challenges.
Researchers address cyber-resilient power grids that prevent billion-dollar outages,
healthcare training
that
expands rural access, robotics that teach STEM while addressing food insecurity, launching startups that
create jobs and spark innovation in every corner of the state — and more.
Serving Illinois, Strengthening Humanity
Rooted in our land-grant mission, U of I System research creates
practical
solutions — not just for Illinois, but for communities everywhere. From pandemic response to climate
resilience, our faculty and students work across borders and disciplines to deliver what the world
needs most.
What protecting research means
When research is underfunded, the losses are profound. It means fewer tools
for hospitals. Fewer advances in
clean water and food systems. Fewer opportunities to build a healthier, more secure, more just future.
$1B+
in annual research spending
225,000+
jobs supported in Illinois
$24.9B
in total annual economic impact
100+
Global partnerships in countries
Thousands
of discoveries improving health, energy, food, and tech worldwide
Research in action
Impact That Spans the Globe
Global Food Security
New technologies help farmers in Illinois and abroad produce more with less
Resilient Power Grids
Cyber-resilient systems protect against blackouts and global disruptions
Health Access Worldwide
Public health research expands care in rural and urban communities alike
Quantum for Global Security
Advances in quantum computing are setting new international standards
Climate Science That Matters
UI researchers lead in modeling extreme weather and adaptation
Innovation Without Borders
Startups built on U of I discoveries scale impact across continents
Read more stories →
Our research advances
Quantum Science
Illinois is shaping the future of quantum — accelerating advances in secure communications,
medicine,
and technology that will define global progress in the 21st century.
Health & Medical Innovation
From community clinics to global health partnerships, our research is driving care breakthroughs
in
care and helping more people live longer, healthier lives.
Entrepreneurship & Economic Impact
Ideas developed on our campuses fuel global industries, expand access to opportunity, and empower
the
next generation of change-makers.
Defend Discovery. Advocate for Impact.
Research funding fuels progress. Your voice protects it.
Strong public investment powers breakthrough discoveries—but that support is never guaranteed. Decisions made
in Washington, D.C., shape whether our labs stay open, our communities benefit, and our students have the
chance to lead future discoveries.
If you believe in research that serves the public good, now is the time to stand up for it.
Here's how you can help:
- Learn how research funding shapes your community
- Get updates on state and federal policy decisions
- See how the U of I System is advocating for continued investment
Stay Aware. Become an Advocate.
Be informed. Be engaged. Be a champion for research.
Sign up for Illinois Advocate, our newsletter for alumni, partners, and supporters who want to stay
current on research impact, higher education policy, and ways to support continued progress.
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