Celebrating Our Research Excellence and Continued R1 Status
I am delighted to share that the University of Mississippi has once again maintained its R1 designation from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, reaffirming our university’s position among the nation’s elite research institutions.
The “R1: Doctoral University – Very High Research Spending and Doctorate Production” distinction is the highest possible classification in the Carnegie system. This status, which we first achieved in 2015, reflects the dedication and tireless work of our faculty, researchers and students, as well as our ongoing commitment to advancing knowledge and addressing global challenges.
The benefits of our R1 status extend across our entire university community, securing vital research funding, attracting exceptional faculty, building global partnerships and creating valuable research and mentorship opportunities for our students.
Our research excellence translates directly into meaningful impacts on everyday life – innovations that result in more precise cancer treatments, safer roads, earlier tornado warnings, agricultural advances for Mississippi farmers and simpler medication solutions.
I am particularly proud that Ole Miss ranks among just 187 universities nationwide to achieve this highest classification. I want to express my sincere thanks to Dr. John Higginbotham, vice chancellor for research and economic development, and his team for their dedication to supporting and growing our research enterprise.
To further celebrate and recognize the research excellence that has made this achievement possible, I am thrilled about the inaugural Chancellor’s Awards for Research and Creative Scholarship. This program will recognize up to nine faculty members each year who have distinguished themselves through excellence in research or creative scholarship in their most recent years at the university.
These awards complement our longstanding Distinguished Research and Creative Achievement Award, which recognizes a faculty member who has achieved national and international recognition in their field over their entire career.
I invite you to join us on April 30 for the University of Mississippi Showcase of Research and Scholarly Activity, where we will celebrate the breadth and impact of research happening across our campus.
As we mark this milestone in our university’s research journey, please join me in thanking and congratulating everyone who contributes to our vibrant research enterprise. Your work not only maintains our prestigious R1 status but continues to advance knowledge, solve problems and transform Mississippi and beyond.