Statler College research programs rank among top 100 in US in latest NSF survey

A new report by the National Science Foundation ranked the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources in the top 23 percent of engineering programs in the United States, coming in at 94 among 413 institutions.  

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Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

The NSF Higher Education Research and Development Survey tracks total R&D expenditures at United States academic institutions each fiscal year. The Statler College accounted for $42.4 million in research development expenditures during the 2021 fiscal year, which represents 22 percent of total research expenditures at West Virginia University.  

“It is very exciting to see our research portfolio growing and diversifying said, Pedro Mago, Glen H. Hiner Dean of the Statler College. “Our outstanding and talented faculty, researchers, and students are developing new technologies, solving problems that benefit humanity today, and creating a prosperous future. I am extremely proud of all the exceptional work of our faculty, staff and students, and I am confident that with their hard work and dedication, the research profile of our college will continue to move to new levels of excellence.”  

Seven disciplines in the Statler College ranked in the top 100 of the survey: mechanical engineering (41), industrial engineering (26), chemical engineering (39), materials science (69), civil engineering (97), aerospace engineering (84) and other engineering (73). 

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 cybersecurity, food security, renewable energy, robotics, biomedical technology and much more. 

“This recognition is made possible through the dedication of our faculty who work tirelessly to produce innovative research,” said Xingbo Liu, associate dean for research and Statler Chair of Engineering. “At the Statler College, we are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges through interdisciplinary collaborations within the College, University and partners in industry. We have set high standards for students and faculty, and they continue to excel and push the boundaries on what is possible. I am confident that we will fulfill our goals outlined in our 5-year research strategic plan and continue to be national leaders in research and beyond.” 

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 653 institutions. 

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