At the University of Washington, safety starts with discovery.
Every day, UW researchers are making America safer — in hospitals, labs, forests, classrooms and beyond. With federal support, they’re tackling wildfires, earthquakes, traffic hazards and other urgent challenges. These breakthroughs don’t happen without federal investment. UW is one of the nation’s top public universities for federally funded research, and that support turns ideas into lifesaving solutions.
But this progress is vulnerable. Without sustained federal funding, safety innovations could stall — leaving communities with fewer tools, fewer protections and fewer solutions for the risks ahead.
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The United States is stronger when we invest in the future. But now, decades of investments are at risk.
Fighting deadly snakebites
Snakebites kill over 100,000 people every year. UW researchers are using artificial intelligence to create a new kind of anti-venom that could save lives — especially in places where help is hard to find.
Early earthquake warnings
The ShakeAlert system, developed at the UW, gives people precious seconds to prepare before an earthquake hits. This federally funded innovation is already saving lives in Washington and beyond — a powerful example of how research translates into real-world safety.
Safer roads through smart sensors
UW engineers partnered with the Yakama Nation to install traffic sensors along Highway 97, improving safety in rural areas. This community-driven research is making roads safer for everyone — and it’s possible only through sustained support from the federal government.
Protecting us from wildfires
As wildfires grow more frequent and intense, UW engineers are developing technologies to help firefighters stay safe and protect communities. Their research includes sensor systems, fire-resistant materials, and predictive modeling to reduce risk and improve emergency response.
Research saves lives — but only if we keep it going
The safety of everyday Americans depends on the kind of research happening right now at the University of Washington. From early warning systems to inclusive education models, these projects are shaping a safer future for all of us. But they can’t continue without strong, sustained federal support.
When funding is uncertain, so is our ability to respond to disasters, protect underserved communities and innovate for the public good. That’s why it’s critical to advocate for research funding. Take action now — sign up for alerts from UW Impact.
Research Makes America
These stories are part of Research Makes America — a University of Washington series showcasing the life-changing power of federally funded research. Learn more about why this research matters — and how you can help protect it.
