UT-Arlington makes major increase in research during 2008

The University of Texas at Arlington increased research expenditures 68.1 percent in 2008 to $66.6 million, up from $39.6 million in 2007.

Among the research and engineering related efforts at the university in 2008:

* UT-Arlington opened a 27,000-square-foot civil engineering laboratory building;

* Broke ground on an engineering research complex;

* Established a Texas Insturments Distinguished University Chair in nanoelectronics.

UT-Arlington’s research efforts will continue to be a major focus during 2009, according to university officials. One major topic of the 81st Texas State Legislature will be the  need for Texas to have more top research universities, also known as Tier 1 universities. Texas has three universities – UT-Austin, Texas A&M and Rice – that are considered Tier 1 schools, with higher levels of research and per student funding. UT-Arlington is among seven universities vying for Tier 1 status. Securing more state funding and research grants are some of the ingredients needed to reach Tier 1 status, according to the university.

Other area schools also seeking possible Tier 1 status include UT-Dallas, the University of North Texas, UT-San Antonio, Texas Tech, University of Houston and UT-El Paso. North Texas officials are hoping to get some help in adding more Tier 1 level furding for schools.

North Texas is the largest metropolitan area in the United States without a Tier 1 school, according to area officials.