Xavier University receives National Institutes of Health grant

Xavier University will participate in the inaugural cohort of the Biomedical Research Environment and Sponsored Programs Administration Development program thanks to a $2.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. The grant is the largest federal grant the university has ever received and will help the university enhance its ability to conduct biomedical research.

According to an article on Xavier University’s website, Colleen Hanycz, the president of the university, was quoted as saying of the award, “This grant represents a historic moment for Xavier, affirming the strength of our research foundation and the innovation propelling the University forward. By taking bold, strategic steps, we are positioning our faculty, current students and future Musketeers for long-term success. This powerful vote of confidence from the NIH serves as a major win for our outstanding faculty educating the next generation of leaders.”

The Biomedical Research Environment and Sponsored Programs Administration Development (BRE-SPAD) program has been designed to assist institutions with burgeoning research platforms to develop research infrastructure. Xavier University is one of six institutions participating in the inaugural cohort of the program, with the grant and cohort running for five years.

Among the initiatives that will go into effect with the grant funding are giving new faculty members the ability to launch their own biomedical research projects and elevating the biomedical research of existing faculty members; creating a support system for faculty members who are seeking external funding for their research projects; creating more opportunities for students and faculty members to promote their projects; and increasing student participation in biomedical research at both the undergraduate and graduate level.

In addition to these efforts, the grant funding will facilitate new opportunities for the proposed Xavier University College of Osteopathic Medicine, which is expected to open in 2027. 

For more information about Xavier University, visit the school’s website.