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News and Impact

Featured News and Announcements

Two individuals in lab coats collaborating on computers in a laboratory setting.

Ryan Family Research Acceleration Fund

The Pat & Shirley Ryan Family Research Acceleration Fund provides seed funding to help Northwestern faculty accelerate the commercialization of high‑potential life sciences research. The Fund supports translational projects in engineering and medicine and position discoveries for follow‑on funding from industry, investors, or government programs.

Faculty are encouraged to apply to advance research with strong potential for societal impact and commercialization.

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker at Northwestern with research leaders for Quantum Week

NU Quantum Week Showcases Research and Partnerships

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker highlighted Northwestern’s central role in Illinois’ growing quantum ecosystem during remarks concluding the University’s inaugural Quantum Week. He pointed to Northwestern’s research strengths, interdisciplinary partnerships, and leadership through INQUIRE as key to the state’s vision for becoming a national hub for quantum innovation.

Research Impact Stories

Chemistry professor Omar Farha

Revolutionizing Clean Air and Chemical Safety

Chemistry professor Omar Farha has developed metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), highly porous materials that act as "programmable sponges" to capture toxic gases. His startup, NuMat Technologies, uses this innovation to safely store hazardous gases and develop self-cleaning masks that neutralize viruses, including COVID-19.

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Transforming Research: Monthly Newsletter

The Office for Research produces regular updates, including policy and guidance for the Northwestern research community. Find archived editions of the news.

Honoring Staff Efforts

OR Innovation Awards logo

Office for Research Innovation Awards

The Office for Research Innovation Awards (ORIA) program honors staff whose innovative efforts have significantly impacted operations, partnerships, and community building. There is also an open category to recognize impactful innovations not covered by these first three areas, ensuring that any remarkable contribution can be recognized.

Get more details about ORIA

Stay Informed

Faculty and administrators are encouraged to subscribe to ORD Insight, a weekly digest featuring federal funding opportunities and limited submission announcements.