The future of research funding won’t look like the past. And that’s a good thing—because we’re not here to maintain. We’re here to lead. 

At the University of Utah, we’ve entered a new era—where research is no longer siloed from national priorities, but central to them. Whether the challenge is health security, economic competitiveness, or technological resilience, research is the thread that runs through it all.   

We are taking action now and our inaugural Research Retreat made that clear: This is a strategic moment—not just to grow research, but to align it, accelerate it, and shape its relevance for the decade ahead. The retreat brought together associate deans of research, institute leaders, and other campus partners to map out how we deliver on the priorities embedded in Strategy 2030.  We are actively forming nimble and responsive research teams to ensure the University of Utah will remain a valued foundation for democracy, innovation and social responsibility for our state, communities and country.   

This work is happening in parallel with national conversations about the future of the U.S. research enterprise. In a powerful new statement, the National Science Board laid out its vision for a “Next Generation NSF”—a faster, more focused, and more collaborative approach to science and technology that mirrors many of the themes we explored together in Park City.

👉 Read the article: Research as Strategy: Why the Future of U.S. Science Depends on Action Now 

Basic science and societal impact will always be foundations. But we must be equally bold in building toward impact: in commercializing discoveries, deepening our federal partnerships, and investing in mission-critical areas like biotechnology, health innovation, and advanced manufacturing. 

This is the work of national leadership. And this is the work we’re committed to doing—together. 

 

Erin Rothwell, PhD
Vice President for Research