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RESEARCH

UNC Charlotte Achieves Prestigious R1 Designation

UNC Charlotte has officially joined the top tier of research institutions in the nation with its new R1 classification. This milestone marks a transformative moment for the University, unlocking new opportunities for groundbreaking discoveries, industry partnerships and student success.

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A Game Changer for the Charlotte Region and Beyond

Having a top-tier research university strengthens the Charlotte region’s economy and fuels workforce development. A prestigious R1 status helps attract high-tech industries, create new job opportunities and establish Charlotte as a national leader in research-driven economic growth.

Why R1 Matters

undergraduate research student at UNC Charlotte presents findings
Undergraduate Students
Attending an R1 university means hands-on research opportunities, faculty mentorship and access to cutting-edge discoveries that enhance learning and career readiness.
Graduate Students
An R1 status provides competitive funding, state-of-the-art research facilities and collaboration with top faculty, positioning students for leadership in academia and industry.
Alumni
R1 designation enhances the value of a UNC Charlotte degree, elevating its national and international reputation while expanding alumni networking opportunities and employer recognition.
Faculty
R1 status enhances faculty research capabilities by increasing access to competitive grants, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and strengthening UNC Charlotte’s position as a leading research institution.
Staff
The new R1 status expands opportunities for career growth and impacts on UNC Charlotte’s research for the dedicated staff managing grants, labs and operations.

By the Numbers

$92M
Research and Development Expenditures (2023)
196
Research Doctorates Awarded (2023-2024)
Top 10
Nationally for new patents and startups per research dollar

Explore Research Across Our Colleges

female student in the science lab at the UNC Charlotte Klein College of Science
Klein College of Science
From biotechnology and advanced mathematics to nanotechnology, artificial intelligence and optical communications, the Klein College of Science is driving discoveries that expand scientific knowledge and impact society.
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UNC Charlotte Students working outside
College of Humanities & Earth and Social Sciences
Research in the college of Humanities & Earth and Social Sciences explores human behavior, cultural challenges and the forces that shape our societal and physical world—creating knowledge that informs policy and improves communities.
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UNC Charlotte students in the nursing lab
College of Health and Human Services
Advancing health equity, innovating in patient care, and tackling public health challenges, the College of Health and Human Services focuses on research that saves lives, fosters health and wellness, and creates jobs.
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Three students from the Belk College of Business working around a computer
Belk College of Business
Focused on financial decision-making, economic analysis and organizational strategies for firms of all sizes, the Belk College of Business research fuels economic growth and industry innovation.
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UNC Charlotte professor working in the engineering lab
William States Lee College of Engineering
From pioneering sustainable infrastructure to advancing autonomous systems, the William States Lee College of Engineering is at the forefront of technological and industrial breakthroughs.
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Two female UNC Charlotte College of Computing and Informatics students working on laptops
College of Computing and Informatics
Through novel, impactful research in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity and bioinformatics, the College of Computing and Informatics is a respected leader in computing and tech innovation.
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UNC Charlotte student teacher with three students
Cato College of Education
Cato College of Education prepares highly effective and ethical professionals, leading the way in educational research, teaching and service through excellence and engagement.
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Three UNC Charlotte College of Arts and Architecture students at the innovation barn
College of Arts + Architecture
The College of Arts + Architecture believes creativity drives innovation and beauty fosters a thriving society. Through research, performance, and artistic creation, it advances arts and design for the future.
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Partner with Us to Advance Innovation

The Division of Research at UNC Charlotte fosters a dynamic environment for discovery, innovation and creative endeavors, supporting faculty in advancing knowledge that shapes the University and society. Through partnerships with industry, government and community organizations, the division translates research into real-world impact, driving economic and social progress in Charlotte and beyond. 

Visit the Division of Research