NSF survey ranks Statler College research programs among top 100 in US

A new report by the National Science Foundation ranked the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources 87th in research expenditures among 411 engineering programs surveyed.

Story by Olivia Miller, Communications Specialist

Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

The NSF Higher Education Research and Development Survey tracks total R&D expenditures at U.S. academic institutions each fiscal year. West Virginia University has been ranked 126th with $188,452 million in total research and development expenditures during the 2020 fiscal year. The Statler College accounts for nearly $42.7 million in R&D expenditures, in fiscal year 2020, which represents 23 percent of total research expenditures of the University.   

“Despite a year of unprecedented challenges, the Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources continues to grow its research, develop new technologies, and make a difference in our state, nation and world,” said, Pedro Mago, Glen H. Hiner Dean of the Statler College. “I am extremely proud of all the outstanding work of our excellent and dedicated faculty, staff and students. I am confident that with their hard work and passion, the research profile of our college will continue to rise.”    

Seven disciplines in the Statler College ranked in the top 100 of the survey: industrial engineering (21), mechanical engineering (41), chemical engineering (62), materials science (72), civil engineering (89), electrical engineering (92), and other engineering (66).  

As an R1 – or very high research activity — classified institution, WVU ranks amongst the most elite research universities in the United States. The NSF R&D expenditure survey is one of the keys elements that contributes to the prestigious designation.  

To maintain this classification, researchers in the Statler College engage in research at the highest level by working with students, collaborators, corporations and government agencies to solve worldwide challenges related to sustainable and secured infrastructure, decarbonization, energy materials, human health and safety, space exploration, robotics, sustainable extraction and utilization of natural resources and much more.  

The NSF Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) Survey is the primary source of information on separately accounted for R&D expenditures within higher education institutions in the United States and outlying areas. The survey was a census of all known eligible universities and colleges spanning more than 900 institutions. 

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