The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) has reported a record $162.3 million in research expenditures for the 2025 fiscal year, surpassing its previous high of $158 million. This information was submitted as part of the National Science Foundation’s annual Survey of Research and Development Expenditures at Universities and Colleges, also known as the HERD Survey.
“When it comes to research, UTEP is in the top 5% of universities in America, and we have gotten even stronger,” said UTEP President Heather Wilson. “We will continue to advance discovery and its application.”
The university identified advanced manufacturing, materials and industrial systems; artificial intelligence, cyber and data systems engineering; and biomedical health sciences as its leading areas for research spending during the past year. Within these fields, faculty are conducting work related to energy and environmental systems, aerospace and defense manufacturing, additive manufacturing, digital engineering, artificial intelligence and machine learning, neuroscience, and immunology.
Federal agencies contributed $73 million toward UTEP’s total research expenditures for fiscal year 2025. The National Science Foundation provided $22 million—the largest share from a single federal agency—followed by the Department of Health and Human Services with $17 million, the Department of Defense with $16 million, and the Department of Energy with $8 million. Additional funding came from NASA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and other federal sources.
Ahmad Itani, Ph.D., vice president for research at UTEP stated: “Reaching $162.3 million in research expenditures validates our strategic focus on research areas where UTEP can make unique contributions. Our growth in research capacity creates opportunities for students, drives economic development and positions UTEP as a leader in addressing complex societal challenges.”
Since fiscal year 2018, UTEP’s annual research expenditures have grown by more than $70 million. The university notes that this expansion supports student training programs as well as workforce development efforts that benefit both the local Paso del Norte region and broader communities.
