ECU Achieves R1 Status: What It Means for You
East Carolina University is now an R1 research institution, a designation given to the top research universities in the U.S. by the American Council on Education (ACE) and Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.
This is the highest level of research excellence, awarded to schools with the most funding, faculty-led research and graduate programs, placing ECU among 5% of institutions in the nation that hold the R1 designation.
ECU’s R1 status strengthens our mission to serve — across our state and around the globe.
We are not just shaping the future. We’re leading the way toward it.
From the Chancellor: A Milestone in ECU’s Journey of Discovery
Why Does R1 Status Matter?
For Students
- More funding for research, scholarships and hands-on learning.
- Stronger career opportunities with an R1 degree.
For Faculty & Researchers
- Enhanced competitiveness for funding from federal agencies and private partners.
- More opportunities for cutting-edge research and collaboration.
For Eastern North Carolina
- Brings new businesses and jobs to the region.
- Supports community-based research and innovation.
ECU’s Research at a Glance
$326.9M in sponsored awards (4-year total)
$67.1M in research expenditures (2023)
420 faculty received funding for research
546 graduate students conducting research
$8.9M in graduate research funding (2024)
Hear from Our Researchers
What I Do at ECU Videos
Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Feature Videos
5-Year Research & Creative Activity Award Winner
Other Research Highlights
Researcher Toolkit
