News Summary
The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Nursing has reclaimed its top ranking for NIH funding in 2025, receiving a significant $17.9 million. This achievement marks a return to national leadership in nursing research, enhancing the school’s role in addressing crucial health challenges. The funding supports various groundbreaking initiatives, from mental health to healthcare systems optimization, demonstrating the school’s commitment to excellence and impactful research.
Philadelphia – The School of Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania has achieved the top national ranking for funding received from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for fiscal year 2025. This marks a significant return to the premier position for the school, a distinction not held since fiscal year 2019. The School of Nursing secured $17.9 million in NIH awards in 2025, reinforcing its leadership in critical health research.
A Return to National Leadership in Nursing Research
The impressive sum of $17.9 million in NIH funding for fiscal year 2025 places the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Nursing at the forefront of institutions dedicated to advancing health through nursing science. This funding is crucial for supporting groundbreaking research initiatives that address a wide array of health challenges, from chronic disease management and mental health to innovative care delivery models and health equity. Such federal investments empower faculty and researchers to pursue discoveries that can profoundly impact patient care and public health outcomes both nationally and globally.
Reclaiming the top spot in NIH funding is a testament to the School of Nursing’s sustained commitment to excellence in research and its ability to attract competitive federal grants. The achievement highlights the high caliber of its faculty, their innovative research proposals, and the robust infrastructure supporting their work. The last time the school held this top ranking was in fiscal year 2019, making this return to the leading position a notable milestone.
Broader University Financial Landscape and Research Prowess
This success within the School of Nursing contributes to the overall robust financial and research standing of the University of Pennsylvania. The University reported increases in revenue and overall University assets during fiscal year 2025. These financial gains underscore a period of growth and stability for the institution, enabling continued investment in its academic and research missions.
In fiscal year 2024, the University of Pennsylvania itself reported substantial research expenditures totaling $2.172 billion. This figure placed Penn as the second-highest among U.S. universities in terms of research spending, demonstrating its comprehensive commitment to pioneering scientific inquiry across various disciplines. Penn Medicine, a key component of the university’s health enterprise, also reported a strong financial performance, with a $109 million operating profit for the first quarter of 2025. Such strong financial health across its entities provides a fertile ground for sustained research innovation and academic distinction.
The Significance of NIH Funding for Nursing Science
NIH funding is highly competitive and peer-reviewed, making the receipt of these awards a strong indicator of the scientific merit and potential impact of the research being conducted. For nursing science, this funding supports studies that translate directly into improved clinical practices, inform health policy, and enhance the quality of life for diverse populations. The research funded by the NIH at the School of Nursing covers critical areas such as developing interventions for vulnerable populations, understanding the mechanisms of disease, and optimizing health care systems.
The University of Pennsylvania, founded as the first school in North America, has a long-standing tradition of contributing to knowledge and innovation. Its sustained success in securing federal research grants, particularly for its School of Nursing, solidifies its position as a vital contributor to national health initiatives and global scientific advancements. The institution’s ability to consistently attract significant research funding ensures that its faculty and students can continue to push the boundaries of knowledge and address pressing health challenges, fostering a healthier future for communities nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest achievement of the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Nursing?
The School of Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania ranks first in NIH funding received for fiscal year 2025.
How much NIH funding did the School of Nursing receive in fiscal year 2025?
The School of Nursing received $17.9 million in NIH awards in 2025.
When was the last time the School of Nursing held the top spot in NIH funding?
The School of Nursing reclaimed the top spot for the first time since fiscal year 2019.
What were the University of Pennsylvania’s total research expenditures in fiscal year 2024?
In fiscal year 2024, Penn reported $2.172 billion in research expenditures.
How did the University of Pennsylvania rank nationally for research expenditures in fiscal year 2024?
The University of Pennsylvania ranked second among U.S. universities in research expenditures for fiscal year 2024.
Did the University of Pennsylvania report increases in revenue and assets in fiscal year 2025?
Yes, Penn reported increases in revenue and University assets during fiscal year 2025.
What was Penn Medicine’s operating profit for the first quarter of 2025?
Penn Medicine reported $109 million operating profit for the first quarter of 2025.
Key Facts: University of Pennsylvania’s Research and Funding
| Institution/Entity | Achievement/Metric | Fiscal Year | Details | Scope |
| University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing | Ranked first in NIH funding | 2025 | Received $17.9 million in NIH awards, reclaiming top spot since FY2019. | National |
| University of Pennsylvania | Total research expenditures | 2024 | $2.172 billion, ranking second among U.S. universities. | Nationwide |
| University of Pennsylvania | Increases in revenue and assets | 2025 | Reported growth in overall financial standing. | University-level |
| Penn Medicine | Operating profit | Q1 2025 | $109 million operating profit. | Entity-level |
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