Research drives UK's engine of innovation

Dear Colleagues,

Throughout my work, I am reminded that research is one of the most powerful ways we fulfill our mission to advance Kentucky. Every day, faculty across the University of Kentucky are generating new knowledge, tackling complex challenges and creating solutions that improve lives throughout the Commonwealth and beyond.

In Spring 2026, we recognized our newly named 2026-27 University Research Professors, who each demonstrate excellence in their fields, spanning the full spectrum of research at UK.

Their achievements reflect the excellence, creativity and impact that define UK's research enterprise and demonstrate how faculty scholarship advances our institution and society.

Their work also highlights an important fact — transformative research happens across every college and discipline. From improving health outcomes and supporting Kentucky's agricultural economy to advancing mathematical innovations, informing public policy and expanding access to oral histories, our faculty are making a difference in countless ways.

And it is not only our University Research Professors who are driving forward innovation at UK. The power of transdisciplinary research — research that crosses disciplines and expertise, the kind of research you conduct every day — cannot be overstated.

This year has been a remarkable one for UK researchers. In fiscal year (FY) 2026, UK surpassed $500 million in research awards for the first time, reflecting the growing momentum and impact of the work being done across campus. Your research is taking us from communities and spaces in our city to beyond the farthest reaches of our atmosphere and into outer space, highlighting the reach we have as a research university. 

As we look ahead to this new academic year, I am excited about the opportunities before us. Through collaboration and a shared commitment to discovery, we will continue to strengthen our position as a university whose research is centered on our mission of advancing Kentucky and ensuring our communities are healthier, wealthier and wiser tomorrow than they are today.

To our University Research Professors and all faculty engaged in research, scholarship and creative activity, thank you for the extraordinary work you do for our communities and our Commonwealth.

Robert DiPaola 
Provost