UCalgary named a top 5 research university for the first time

Calgary, AB – For the first time, the University of Calgary has ranked in the top five of Canada’s best research universities in Re$earch Infosource Inc.’s latest Top 50 Research Universities list released on January 25, 2022. UCalgary is the youngest university in the top five.

“When we announced our Eyes High vision to become recognized as a top five research university, we knew it was an ambitious goal ­– but we also knew it was achievable. I am thrilled that this recognition is starting to be realized by objective ranking systems. I congratulate the campus community on this achievement. It was a collective effort, and we share in this success and all that will come next.”

Dr. Ed McCauley, PhD, president and vice-chancellor, University of Calgary

UCalgary’s fifth-place rank among Canadian universities is based on the $457 million of sponsored research income generated in 2019-20. Since the submission of this data, UCalgary has also publicized the institution’s 2021 sponsored research income total of $504 million – a 10.3 per cent increase over 2019-20.

“This increase in funding demonstrates that our research is highly relevant, and pursuing bold new solutions to society’s complex challenges,” says McCauley. “Research dollars also create opportunities: jobs and training, experiential learning, access to cutting-edge facilities and an expanded innovation ecosystem.”

“The University of Calgary is performing in the ranks of much larger, more established institutions who inspire us to continue our pursuit of research excellence. We’re thrilled to be sharing this news with Calgarians. This ranking shows that we are a sought-after destination for the best and brightest scholars, who are driven to pursue impactful research in a top-tier environment.”

- Dr. William Ghali, MD, vice-president (research) University of Calgary

UCalgary has the fastest growth rate in attracting research funding among the ten largest universities in Canada. Research contributes to the diversification of Calgary’s economy, attracts new business, and fosters a spirit of collaboration and innovation. Research makes up $8 billion of the institution’s total $16 billion economic impact.

UCalgary is a celebrated international leader across many disciplines and a champion for community-engaged research. UCalgary is also home to a dynamic innovation community, as the number one start up creator among Canadian research universities.

“This tremendous growth is the direct result of the dedication and excellence of our research community,” says Ghali. “Together, we will continue to create life-changing knowledge that enriches society and gives back to the city of Calgary that we are so proud to be a part of.”

“This achievement not only highlights the quality of our scholars, but also the opportunity available for our undergraduate and graduate students. There is an energy that comes from engaging in learning and discovery, grounded in the latest research with top scholars in the world, that simply can’t be replicated. We are proud at UCalgary to be able to offer an environment that prepares students for academic and professional paths.”

- Dr. Teri Balser, PhD, provost and vice-president (academic), University of Calgary

Re$earch Infosource Inc. places Canadian universities into one of four tiers (i.e., medical, comprehensive, undergraduate, and specialized) and then ranks their performance based on the total amount of sponsored research income they generate. This includes all funds to support research received in the form of a grant, contribution or contract from all sources external to the institution.

See the rankings here.

Media inquiries

Pamela Hyde
Senior Specialist, Strategic Marketing and Communications
Office of the Vice-President (Research)
403-701-6720
pbhyde1@ucalgary.ca

 

About the University of Calgary

The University of Calgary is a global intellectual hub located in Canada’s most enterprising city. In our spirited, high-quality learning environment, students thrive in programs made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. Our strategy drives us to be recognized as one of Canada’s top five research universities, engaging the communities we both serve and lead. 

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