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.
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.
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
New technologies help farmers in Illinois and abroad produce more with less
Cyber-resilient systems protect against blackouts and global disruptions
Public health research expands care in rural and urban communities alike
Advances in quantum computing are setting new international standards
UI researchers lead in modeling extreme weather and adaptation
Startups built on U of I discoveries scale impact across continents
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Illinois is shaping the future of quantum — accelerating advances in secure communications, medicine, and technology that will define global progress in the 21st century.
From community clinics to global health partnerships, our research is driving care breakthroughs in care and helping more people live longer, healthier lives.
Ideas developed on our campuses fuel global industries, expand access to opportunity, and empower the next generation of change-makers.
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.
Be informed. Be engaged. Be a champion for research.
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