Research matters. It powers the medical treatments that keep our families healthy, the innovations that create high-paying jobs, the technologies that help our farmers grow food more efficiently, and the tools our military and first responders rely on to protect and serve. And working alongside researchers, students gain valuable real-world experience for their future careers.
At the UW, we’re proud to conduct more federally sponsored research on behalf of the American people than any other public university — changing lives and boosting the nation’s global competitiveness.
The United States is stronger when we invest in the future. But now, decades of investments are at risk. Visit UW Impact to sign up for alerts about threats to this important work.
UW research makes a difference
A new way to fight cancer
Most cancer treatments also harm our body’s healthy cells, and the side effects can be tough to live with. UW scientists are working on a new treatment that not only kills cancer cells but also helps the body heal.
Protecting us from wildfires
Wildfires are becoming more common and more dangerous. UW engineers are creating new tools to help firefighters stay safe and protect our communities.
Diagnosing Alzheimer’s sooner
UW researchers are developing a blood test to find early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Thanks to federal grant support, they’re working to bring this test to patients — offering hope for earlier treatment.
Preventing childhood asthma
Asthma is the most common chronic disease affecting children in America. UW researchers discovered that kids breathing polluted air are more likely to develop asthma by ages 4–6. By studying the early signs of asthma, they’re finding ways to stop the disease before it starts.
Early earthquake warnings
Developed at the UW, Washington’s ShakeAlert system warns people seconds before an earthquake hits, giving precious time to prepare or take cover.
Dental care for rural patients
The UW’s RIDE program trains dental students to work in rural areas where dentists are scarce — and the program has doubled in size due to demand. Federal funding gives these students hands-on, high-tech learning opportunities.
Pioneers in special education
For over 50 years, the Haring Center at UW has been leading research to help all children, including those with disabilities, get the support they need to succeed at school. Their work has transformed classrooms nationwide for students of all abilities.
Fighting deadly snakebites
Snakebites kill over 100,000 people every year. UW researchers are using artificial intelligence to create a new kind of antivenom that could save lives — especially in places where help is hard to find.
Hope for a breast cancer vaccine
Researchers at the UW are working on a vaccine that teaches the body’s immune system to attack breast cancer cells. Early results show it’s not only safe but might also prevent the cancer from coming back.
UW research saves lives
How UW medical research saves lives and strengthens communities
With one of the largest research programs in the world, UW Medicine is committed to helping all of us live longer, healthier lives. The innovative research that happens here leads to new treatments for health threats like cancer, Alzheimer’s and diabetes. It also creates jobs and drives economic growth.
Nobel-winning UW scientist’s work fueled by federal research support
UW professor David Baker won the 2024 Nobel Prize in chemistry for creating new proteins that can attack cancer cells, defend against viruses and even combat pollution. His groundbreaking discoveries were made possible through years of federal research funding, which is now at risk.
From Navy service to neuroscience research
After serving as a nuclear chemist in the U.S. Navy, Kristin Bennett faced serious health challenges, including mini-strokes and autoimmune disorders. Now, as a UW undergraduate, she brings her firsthand experience with traumatic brain injuries into the lab, working to uncover mysteries about the brain and advance treatments for others.
UW research has wide-reaching impacts
Protecting people who feed America
Farmworkers are essential to putting food on our tables — but their jobs can be dangerous. In Washington, the nation’s #1 apple-producing state, UW researchers are working to prevent common injuries, making agricultural work safer for the people who keep America fed.
Charging up electric vehicles
UW engineers are building better batteries and smarter technology to make electric vehicles cleaner, safer and more affordable. Working with American companies like Ford and General Motors, they’re helping the U.S. stay competitive in clean energy and create high-paying jobs.
Better responses for homelessness
Accurate information is key to addressing homelessness. UW researchers are helping cities better understand and support people without housing by developing a new, more effective way to count and track those in need.
UW research in every corner of Washington
Our research improves lives in local communities here in Washington. Explore stories of how UW innovations are enhancing health, safety and quality of life in communities across the state.
UW voices on the impact of research cuts
One of the country’s leading Alzheimer’s projects is in jeopardy
NBC News
From Nobel buzz to hiring halt: Trump funding cuts hobble UW protein design startup machine
Geekwire
Federal cuts could gut Washington’s research labs
Axios
Washington is losing $160M in federal health funding. Here’s what to know
The Seattle Times
active clinical trials of treatments and cures
active UW spinoff
companies
jobs supported and sustained statewide by UW research
generated in the Washington economy from UW research