TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — For the first time in its history, The University of Alabama College of Engineering received more than $100 million in new external research awards in a single fiscal year, with just over $100.5 million in new awards for FY 2024. This accomplishment marks a period of vast growth, signified by a 244% increase in research grant awards over the past five years.
“We are immensely proud to announce that the College of Engineering at The University of Alabama has surpassed $100 million in new research awards for fiscal year 2024,” said Dr. Clifford Henderson, Dean of the College of Engineering. “This remarkable achievement, marking a more than 50% increase in new research awards to our College and our faculty in just the past two years and more than a four-fold increase over the past eight years, is a testament to the exceptional dedication, ingenuity, and vision of our faculty, staff, and students.”
Nearly 70% of College of Engineering faculty and staff members, or 122 individuals, received 383 new research funding awards in this record-breaking year.
Dr. Tim Haskew, Associate Dean for Research and Economic Development, noted the role of COE faculty in reaching this goal.
“This is a significant milestone, demonstrating that our faculty excel at leading cutting-edge programs that compete and win on the national and international stages. Reaching this point is a testament to the quality of our faculty, students, and staff, who continually strive for excellence. It is an honor to work alongside each and every one of them,” Haskew said.
Henderson will recognize College of Engineering faculty with a reception on Nov. 13 to celebrate the researchers’ “inquisitiveness, imagination, and new ideas that drive new research awards and efforts in the College.”
“The hard work of our faculty continues to push the boundaries of engineering and computer science knowledge and innovation, and the fruits of their vision and hard work continue to make an ever increasing and significant impact,” Henderson said. “I couldn’t be more proud of our faculty, staff, and students, and it is a pleasure to serve as Dean for the College and have the opportunity to represent and lead our outstanding College of Engineering family.”
Henderson expressed his gratitude for the support of The University of Alabama and its leadership and their commitment to research and education. Aligned with the University’s research mission, Henderson said the College is forging a more prosperous future for the state, region, and nation, and blazing new pathways in science and engineering.
“This is a great achievement for our College, but we are already busy envisioning and translating our next goals into a reality where we double this achievement in the years ahead,” said Henderson.