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A Transformative Year for UT San Antonio

The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio) has undertaken a remarkable journey this past year, evolving into a prominent academic institution that consolidates innovative research, exceptional healthcare, and comprehensive education. This evolution is now officially recognized as UT San Antonio marks its first entry into the national rankings by the Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research, landing at a commendable No. 64 out of 2,702 institutions in the United States based on National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding.

With an impressive total of $147,098,904 secured, UT San Antonio has climbed five places from the previous year's rankings. This achievement illustrates not just the institution's scientific accomplishments but also its dedication to advancing biomedical research that significantly benefits the state of Texas and beyond. Dr. Francisco G. Cigarroa, the senior executive vice president for health affairs at UT Health San Antonio, proclaimed this as a turning point for the university, emphasizing the collective effort of the faculty and the university’s consolidated strength.

Expanding Research Capacity

The annual Blue Ridge rankings reflect more than just financial statistics; they highlight the impressive growth in research capacity and collaborative infrastructure at UT San Antonio. The ongoing rise of NIH funding serves as a clear indication of the institution's commitment to tackling critical health issues, including breakthroughs in personalized healthcare, innovative therapies, and overall biomedical advancements. As Dr. Jennifer Sharpe Potter, senior executive vice president for research and innovation, noted, nearly 200 scientists are diligently working to address vital health questions affecting communities across Texas.

Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine

Among the various constituents of UT San Antonio, the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine has shown remarkable prowess in research standing, ranking No. 50 nationally with $124,440,804 in NIH funding. Departments within this school achieved impressive financial milestones, with internal medicine totaling $25.4 million, and microbiology, immunology, and molecular genetics reaching $16.2 million, among other significant contributions.

Robert A. Hromas, the dean of the Long School of Medicine, attributed this success to extensive investments in faculty, programs, and strategic partnerships aimed at accelerating research in diverse fields from cancer to infectious diseases.

School of Dentistry Joins the Elite

One of the standout achievements this year came from the School of Dentistry, which impressed with a leap to No. 9 nationally, cementing its position among the leading dental schools in the country with significant NIH funding of $9,770,084. Dean Kenneth M. Hargreaves emphasized that this recognition mirrors the innovative spirit of its faculty and the commitment to enhancing oral health research that improves overall health and quality of life.

Other Schools Highlighted

The Kate Marmion School of Public Health also had a notable showing, ranking No. 36 with an allocation of $6,726,764 in NIH funding. Dean Vasan Ramachandran emphasized the vital role of public health research within the broader community, where evidence-based solutions address critical health challenges. Additionally, the College of Sciences recorded $5,839,862 in NIH funding, which fosters student mentoring and opens doors for future educational opportunities. The UT San Antonio School of Nursing, continuing to build its NIH-funded research portfolio, ranked No. 73 with funding of $243,000.

Building Momentum for Future Growth

The latest Blue Ridge rankings symbolize a triumphant moment for UT San Antonio as it unites its medical, dental, nursing, and public health disciplines, signaling a favorable trajectory toward national competitiveness and influential health contributions. As the institution furthers its research and outreach, this recognition provides a promising foundation for future growth and an enduring commitment to improving health outcomes.

Understanding the Blue Ridge Rankings

For over two decades, the Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research has provided crucial annual evaluations of NIH funding to universities, reflecting the strength of scientific research across the nation. Funded by the NIH, which awarded approximately $36.8 billion in grants for the fiscal year 2025, this ranking system is widely respected as a concrete measure of research excellence, drawing on data from the NIH's extensive peer review process.

UT Health San Antonio stands as a vital pillar in the academic framework of The University of Texas at San Antonio. As the only academic health center in the region, it connects healthcare professionals across multiple disciplines while conducting over 2.5 million patient visits annually. With a robust foundation built upon schools of medicine, nursing, dentistry, health professions, and public health, UT Health continues to lead efforts in advancing key fields both regionally and nationally. To explore more about UT Health San Antonio's commitment to enhanced living, visit UTHealthSA.org.