The University of Houston continues its march of excellence in research and technology transfer, as demonstrated by the impressive growth on all metrics of performance, outcomes and impact presented in this annual report. On performance, we have submitted more research proposals than ever. On outcomes, we have earned new research funding that surpasses our previous record. And on impact, our reputation as a research powerhouse is much stronger than before, and our royalties income has increased considerably.

Three factors are catapulting our research enterprise to new heights, namely: (i) our four research thrusts of Cyber and Physical Security, Drug Discovery and Development, Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure and Accessible Health are taking root and creating the synergies that are leading to the formation of large research teams and research institutes, (ii) the Chancellor-announced 50-in-5 initiative is raising the profile of research amongst the faculty and generating new energy and enthusiasm for research preeminence, and (iii) the complete reorganization and professional development of the Division of Research staff has led to the unleashing of the faculty creativity and initiative, supported by our professional proposal development partners McAllister and Quinn.

While the present is vibrant and impressive, the best of UH Research is yet to come. With a new College of Medicine, the excellence and passion of our professoriate, deep engagement with Houston’s innovation ecosystem, new collaborations with the Texas Medical Center and NASA, and our broad alliance with the top energy corporations, the University of Houston will continue and indeed enhance its contribution to this great city, the third coast region and the nation.

Amr Elnashai, FREng
Vice President for Research