Research at UM

Innovation and Imagination

The University of Montana is built upon a 130-year legacy as the state’s flagship public research university. Our research capabilities have rapidly accelerated in the past decade, growing from $55 million in expenditures in 2014 to over $150 million in 2025. This exceptional growth led to UM’s achievement of the coveted R1 designation in 2022.

Faculty researchers, staff, and students contribute to UM’s research excellence and impact our community—local and global—with knowledge and discoveries that help shape our way of life. Their discoveries have led to advances in immunizations, biotechnology, environmental conservation, new perspectives on American democracy and civic dialog, and so much more.

From forestry and fire science to the humanities and creative arts, our graduates become leaders in their fields, contributing to the richness of their communities, wherever they land. What’s made in Montana is remaking the world.