DU Again Secures R1 Status

The University of Denver has once again been recognized as an R1 research institution, reaffirming its place among the nation’s top research universities. This designation—reserved for institutions with the highest levels of research activity—underscores DU’s commitment to advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and upholding the teacher-scholar model that defines its academic excellence. 

Chancellor Jeremy Haefner emphasized the significance of this achievement and what makes DU’s research environment unique. 
 
"We are so proud of our faculty who have made DU a unique high-intensity research university that is having an outstanding impact in improving the human condition,” Haefner says. “We have achieved this recognition and status without a medical school, and this significantly differentiates this university. We’ve done this with a broad and diverse set of research interests of our faculty." 

Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Mary Clark echoed this sentiment, celebrating the university’s research community. 
 
"We are incredibly proud of all of our scholars on campus, who have pursued top-flight research, scholarship, and creative activity, holding true to our commitment to the teacher-scholar ideal. We pledge our unwavering support—and immense pride—to all of our scholars. Thank you for your exceptional work." 

Since first achieving R1 status, DU has continued to expand its research enterprise, creating new opportunities for faculty, graduate, and undergraduate students alike. Across disciplines, DU scholars are driving groundbreaking discoveries, tackling global challenges, and making a lasting impact on society. 

Corinne Lengsfeld, senior vice provost for research and graduate education, says the designation strongly signals the strength of the researchers at the University.  

“This designation was built on the backs of incredibly smart researchers with work effort above and beyond, and against many obstacles,” she says. “This is a historic achievement and one that reflects the importance of research—our national strength and the core of our impact on economic drivers. Because R1 requires a perfect environment of innovation, impact, and creativity to thrive, only a few institutions around the country receive this distinction and do this well."