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Research Initiatives

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Where Ideas Become Impact

Research is the engine of innovation, and as an R1 university, George Mason plays a critical role in advancing knowledge that transforms lives. Your support fuels discovery, drives economic growth, informs policy, strengthens national security, and empowers communities to shape a better future for us all.

Our faculty and student researchers confront real-world challenges—from health and cybersecurity to sustainability and space exploration—developing solutions that make a tangible impact locally, regionally, and globally.

Andre Marshall Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Economic Impact

Out in Front on Innovation

#1

in Virginia and #25 nationally among public institutions for innovation (U.S. News and World Report)

Top 10

U.S. public universities in research growth (National Science Foundation)

$282M

Total research expenditures in 2024–30% increase in the last 5 years

Why Research? Why Now? Why You?

With 18 programs ranked “Best in Virginia” based on performance in research (EduRank), George Mason’s unprecedented growth in new research is a reflection of our community’s ambition. With your partnership, we can extend our reach even further, cultivating breakthroughs in science, policy, technology, health, and beyond. Together, we turn potential into progress.

Grand Challenge Initiative infographic

Grand Challenge Initiative

Support of multidisciplinary research addresses society’s most complex challenges, from climate resilience to digital equity, through collaborative faculty and student efforts.

Students in a robotics lab

Innovation Districts

Your gifts will build the physical and intellectual infrastructure of our Innovation Districts at Mason Square, SciTech, and beyond and create opportunities for startups, faculty, and learners to converge and collaborate.

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Core Facilities

By ensuring Mason researchers and students have access to the latest tools and facilities such as the Biomedical Research Lab, Research Computing, and the Mason Innovation Exchange (MIX), you’ll be a part of next-gen technologies that improve lives.

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Be the Spark That Ignites Knowledge

Every discovery starts with a question, and your support helps us answer it. Join us in shaping a research ecosystem defined by impact, inclusion, and excellence.