The University of Calgary is the youngest top five research university in Canada, according to the Re$earch Infosource Canada's Top 50 Research Universities rankings. UCalgary's $588.5M in sponsored research income for the 2023-24 fiscal year boosted the institution back into the number five spot for the first time since 2021.
"This top five ranking was achieved thanks to the brilliance and dedication of our research community," says Dr. William Ghali, vice-president (research). "Our $588.5 million in sponsored research income is more than just a dollar amount it's breakthrough discoveries, life-saving innovations, and solutions to the most pressing problems facing the communities we serve."
Ed McCauley. Photo Courtesy Riley Brandt, University of Calgary
UCalgary's ranking performance is part of the institution's incredible growth trajectory, says Dr. Ed McCauley, president and vice-chancellor. "In nearly 60 years, the University of Calgary has become a research and innovation powerhouse, competing with institutions that have been around for much longer," he says. "Our research community rises to this challenge every day, fueled by bold ambitions, entrepreneurial thinking, and academic rigour. The results are undeniable."
UCalgary also ranked in the top five for six other categories ranked by Re$earch Infosource: Research funding per faculty member, research funding per graduate student, corporate research income, and international government research income overall, as a percentage of total income, and year-over-year growth.
A closer look at UCalgary's research rankings shows a commitment to strategic growth, enhanced funding diversification, and continued progress towards Ahead of Tomorrow objectives.
"We're a future-focused university, developing sustainable funding models that help to insulate our institution from economic challenges," says Ghali. "We have strong industry ties, alignment with local, provincial and federal government priorities, an engaged philanthropic community, and a growing profile on the international stage."
William Ghali. Photo Courtesy Kokemor Studio
According to Ghali, this adds up to a strong position for smart growth and continued success in national rankings. Paired with UCalgary's leadership in research commercialization, startups, and invention disclosures, the future is bright for the institution as it prepares to enter its 60th year. Research revenue data has been calculated for the 2024-25 fiscal year, boasting a highest-ever total of $632.4M for the institution.
"We're thrilled about the $632.4 million but we'll have to wait until next year to see where that places us in the national rankings," Ghali explains.
Increased research revenue also has a positive economic impact. UCalgary researchers are advancing Alberta's long-standing key sectors, like energy, health care and agriculture, while also creating growth in new sectors including quantum technology, cybersecurity and aerospace, bolstered by the expertise of our scholars in public policy, social sciences, and the arts.
"Our research revenue is creating jobs, attracting top talent from around the world, and training the next generation of industry leaders," says McCauley. "UCalgary is helping to position Alberta as a hub for innovation by diversifying our economy and ensuring its resilience for years to come."
Toronto-based Re$earch Infosource is Canada's leading source of research and development data about universities, colleges, and corporations.
