IU School of Medicine reaches new NIH funding milestone

It is with great pride that I share the news that the Indiana University School of Medicine has received a record-breaking $217 million in research funding from the National Institutes of Health for the 2021 federal fiscal year. 

This is the sixth year in a row that the school’s scientists and physicians surpassed the previous year’s funding. Achieving this high level of federal support speaks to the dedication of our faculty and the quality of their work. 

IU School of Medicine now ranks 27th nationally in NIH funding – the highest in the school’s history – and 14th in the nation among public medical schools. 

The story behind these figures is one of improving and saving lives through groundbreaking research, contributing to the state’s economic vitality, and striving for student success. 

Recent IU School of Medicine studies funded by the NIH have strengthened our understanding and treatments of Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, childhood asthma, and congenital heart defects. These research efforts enhance our quality of life, giving hope to patients and families. 

This work also strengthens our economy with an estimated 2,817 jobs created in Indiana, based on a 2021 report by United Medical Research. Between those jobs, purchasing of materials and equipment, and other related expenses, this medical research generated an estimated $218 million in state economic activity in the 2021 federal fiscal year.

The unique, hands-on experience our students receive in labs and clinics under the direction of our faculty is invaluable, allowing many of them to enter the workforce right here in Indiana, ready to improve lives.

The ripple effect from the prestigious NIH funding awarded to our IU researchers is felt in our local communities and around the world. Congratulations to IU School of Medicine, Dean Jay Hess, and all of the scientists and physicians for this outstanding achievement. 

Pamela Whitten

President
Indiana University