Elevating Rhode Island’s Research and Innovation Landscape
The University of Rhode Island (URI) has reached a new – and prestigious – milestone in its academic and research journey by earning the esteemed R1 research university designation from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. This recognition places URI among the top 4.8% of universities nationwide, signifying the highest level of research activity and reinforcing its position as a world-class hub for research, innovation, and public scholarship.
A Landmark Achievement
The R1 classification is a transformative milestone for URI and the entire state of Rhode Island. With this designation, URI joins an elite group of 187 universities in the U.S. recognized for their exceptional research output, including a significant number of doctoral degrees awarded and substantial research and development expenditures. URI is now one of only two institutions in Rhode Island to hold this distinction, joining fellow OSHEAN member Brown University.
A Catalyst for Research, Innovation, and Economic Growth
Achieving R1 status has profound implications for URI’s ability to attract top-tier faculty, secure competitive research grants, and expand interdisciplinary collaboration across fields ranging from oceanography and engineering to biomedical sciences and the arts.
The R1 status also underscores URI’s commitment to investing in cutting-edge infrastructure. Recent developments include an $87.5 million bond for a new biomedical sciences building and a multi-year modernization of the Narragansett Bay Campus, which bolsters URI’s leadership in ocean sciences and the blue economy.
URI’s R1 status is more than an academic recognition – it is a gateway to new opportunities. By continuing to expand its research initiatives, URI will play a vital role in solving complex global challenges, from environmental sustainability to biomedical advancements.
Impact on Rhode Island
With an enhanced ability to secure federal and private research funding, URI is poised to drive economic development, foster industry partnerships, and support workforce growth in high-tech and STEM fields.
David Marble, CEO of OSHEAN, emphasized the broader impact of URI’s new designation: “This elevates not just the university but the entire state’s position in the research and technology landscape. It strengthens our ability to attract investment, talent, and collaboration opportunities that will shape Rhode Island’s future.”
OSHEAN would like to recognize board member Gaurav Khanna, who has been deeply involved in the university’s strategic efforts to elevate its research capabilities over the last few years. His collaboration coupled with the extensive efforts of URI faculty and administration, provided the formula to reach this milestone.
As URI ascends to the highest ranks of research institutions, its impact will be felt across Rhode Island. It will foster a culture of innovation that benefits businesses, communities, and future generations of scholars. With continued investment in research and strategic industry collaborations, URI is well-positioned to drive transformative change both locally and globally.
The future of research in Rhode Island has never been brighter, and we are proud to see URI leading the way.