Driving Discovery, Improving Lives
At UC Irvine, discovery leads to real-world impact.
Our researchers are reimagining what is possible, from developing new Alzheimer’s treatments to pioneering AI breakthroughs. Research that makes a real impact on everyday lives. But innovation needs support. Continued federal investment in science fuels progress and ensures bold ideas become solutions that benefit us all.
Safeguarding Our Future
From studying the remarkable strength of mantis shrimp to creating energy systems for the Navy and developing sensors that detect dangerous chemicals, UC Irvine researchers are driving innovations that strengthen national defense and security. This work depends on sustained investment from federal science agencies. #StandUpforUC and #SpeakUp4Science call attention to what is at risk if that support is lost. The stories below show how federal funding in research leads to real-world breakthroughs.
Use your voice to advocate and help protect the future of research.
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Stronger national defense through biology
UC Irvine researcher uncovers nature’s blueprints for mighty materials
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
Sniffing out danger
Innovative electronic nose detects explosives, narcotics, hazardous chemicals with precision
AIR FORCE OFFICE OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH
Shining light on trauma care
UC Irvine laser scientists pioneer optical technologies to save lives on the battlefield and beyond
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Thermal energy innovation to drive next-gen Navy energy and power systems
Department of Defense-funded initiative aims to apply machine learning to transform heat management in critical defense infrastructure
By the Numbers
Research fuels what's next. Its impact can be measured in lives improved, economies strengthened and communities transformed.
$8.1 billion annual economic impact across California
5.6 million patients served in Orange, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties
$46.2 billion in investments in and returns from UC Irvine startups
Revolutionizing Brain Health
Our research is advancing early detection and innovative care, improving patient outcomes while reducing healthcare costs and creating economic impact.
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF AGING
Detecting dementia earlier for better treatment
With NIH support, Aaron Bornstein seeks to develop an inexpensive assessment of cognitive ability
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF AGING
Linking sleep apnea during REM sleep to memory loss, brain changes
UC Irvine researchers find that low oxygen levels may injure critical cerebral regions
Technology That Transforms
From artificial intelligence to quantum science, we are developing smarter systems, cleaner energy and a more connected world.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
UC Irvine scientists discover new state of quantum matter
Breakthrough material may power future space-ready, low-power computers
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
Unraveling molecular secrets
Scientists around the globe use microscopy technique invented by UC Irvine engineer
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
Sparking the next revolution in batteries
A new material created at UC Irvine could help usher in the next generation of lithium-ion batteries
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
Advancing AI for sustainability education
UC Irvine researchers earn a $900,000 NSF grant to develop AI-driven, personalized learning in sustainability science
Advancing Medical Frontiers
We are reimagining healthcare to address critical health challenges affecting millions worldwide.
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH
Studying gut microbiomes to improve human health
Research explores how gut microbiome shapes health, may improve treatments for cancer and disease
NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR ARTHRITIS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISEASES
Discovering improved treatments for cancer and skin disorders
With federal funding support, dermatology researchers develop promising new drugs
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH
Fighting stomach cancer with innovation
UCI Health oncologists’ successful STOPGAP study receives approval for a multi-site, national trial
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
Advancing regenerative medicine treatments using fats from cartilage
The fat-rich, stress-resistant tissue could transform treatment for facial injuries, birth defects and cartilage disease
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH
Exploring music’s power to reduce pain
Mindful listening practices ease anxiety and improve comfort, which could lead to a reduction in opioids for patients
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS AND STROKE
Tracing Parkinson’s disease origins to gut bacteria
Researchers identify how gut bacteria may trigger the disease, uncovering potential ways to stop it before it starts
Safeguarding Our Future
Our researchers are enhancing cybersecurity and strengthening national defense capabilities.
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Thermal energy innovation to drive next-gen Navy energy and power systems
Department of Defense-funded initiative aims to apply machine learning to transform heat management in critical defense infrastructure
Pioneering Sustainable Solutions
From clean energy breakthroughs to resilient urban design, we are creating a healthier planet and spurring economic growth through green innovation.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION, NOAA, NASA
Saving California’s eroding beaches
Multi-prong effort can preserve our coastlines to protect housing and infrastructure
Federally Funded Research Centers
UC Irvine is home to federally funded research centers tackling some of the most urgent health, scientific and technology challenges of our time. From cancer cures to advanced materials, these nationally recognized hubs advance discovery, improve health and bring critical funding to Orange County.
Advancing the best in cancer research and care
Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center is OC’s only National Cancer Institute-designated center
Unlocking the mystery of Alzheimer’s disease
UCI MIND is one of the few research U.S. centers designed by the National Institute of Aging
Translating research into new cures
NIH-supported Institute for Clinical & Translational Science moves science from ‘lab to life’
Ushering in a new era of biology
NSF and Simons support advanced research about the building blocks of life in the Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research
Visit center
Solving critical challenges with unique materials
The Center for Complex and Active Materials is one of 20 National Science Foundation Materials Research Science and Engineering Centers
Providing health and environmental solutions
NSF-industry-supported Center for Advanced Design and Manufacturing of Integrated Microfluidics helps companies address technical challenges.
Produced by the Office of Strategic Communications & Public Affairs
