The following op-ed originally appeared in the Deseret News.
Imagine if companies like Pixar, Adobe, or Atari—rooted in Utah’s university research—had established themselves here rather than Silicon Valley. They could have, with today’s workforce and economy.
The University of Utah and Utah State University are Utah’s only designated R1 doctoral universities engaged in the highest level of research activity, and both are key to preparing our state for tomorrow’s opportunities. We are the foundation of Utah’s innovation engine, driving cutting-edge research, technological development, commercialization and world-class national defense and healthcare advancements. Together, we utilize a combined annual research award budget of $1.2 billion (as of FY23) to cultivate talent, fuel economic growth and strengthen national competitiveness.
Utah has the potential to become a national innovation hub. It’s in our DNA, with landmark achievements like pioneering the ARPANET (the precursor to the internet), the first artificial heart implant, identifying the BRCA1 cancer gene and most recently the HIV-preventative drug lenacapavir, named 2024 Breakthrough of the Year. But to capitalize on revolutionary ideas and thrive in the decades ahead, Utah must prioritize intentional investment in research.
Developing talent
Research drives human capital development, equipping graduates to solve complex challenges and thrive in a competitive global economy. Advanced degrees, especially in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), are vital for original discovery.
Utah’s 2001 investment in STEM education through the Engineering and Computer Technology Initiative, motivated by the inability to keep companies like Pixar, Adobe or Atari in Utah, has paid off, making the state first in STEM degree growth since 2016. This success directly translates into a stronger workforce and heightened economic productivity.
To maintain this momentum, we must continue to nurture talent pipelines and expand opportunities for research-based education.
Remaining competitive
Globally, the race for technological advancement is critical to national security and leadership. Historically, the U.S. rose to prominence by investing in higher education, cultivating domestic resources and driving world-class manufacturing. Yet, other countries have now picked up that playbook and started to execute it at a high level. A recent report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlights that China leads in 37 of 44 advanced technology areas, producing nine times more high-impact research than the U.S.
This challenge underscores the importance of research institutions like the University of Utah and Utah State. By conducting foundational research, we generate discoveries that fuel industries and startups, ensuring the U.S. retains its competitive edge.
Utah State exemplifies this potential with successes like USU alumni-led Campbell Scientific and Hyclone Laboratories, which drive high-paying careers locally and globally. Governor Spencer Cox’s $7 million Life Sciences Workforce Initiative builds on this momentum, but Utah must do more to retain talent and transform into a hub for cutting-edge industries.
Impacting Main Street
The economic returns of research are undeniable. Faculty generate grant dollars, reduce student costs and pioneer solutions that enhance local economies. Research grants fund graduate students and create a ripple effect on jobs, wages and tax revenues.
For instance, the University of Utah’s $300 million FORGE geothermal project, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, boosts Iron County’s economy. Similarly, Utah State’s ASPIRE project turned a $3 million state investment into $80 million in federal and industry research—a 2,683% return on investment.
Establishing a dedicated research investment fund would sustain these successes while aligning with state economic goals. Collaborative opportunities, such as combining Utah State’s animal research with the University of Utah’s human research, could accelerate drug development and save lives.
Planning for Utah’s research future
Research is a long-term endeavor requiring patience and foresight. Utah already ranks first in innovation, as previously reported by the Deseret News. Our research universities are essential to developing industry-aligned innovation ecosystems that address challenges and keep our economy thriving.
With a 20-year plan for research institutions and investments aligned with economic development, Utah will solidify its place as a leader in innovation. When the next great opportunity arises, Utah will be ready.
Intentional investment in research isn’t just about economic returns—it’s about securing a better future for all Utahns. By supporting institutions like the University of Utah and Utah State, the state can ensure a resilient economy built on discovery and growth.
Utah’s R1 universities are prepared to lead. The time for action is now.