A new era for research at Indiana University

This year marks a major research milestone at IU: 50 years ago, Dr. Lawrence Einhorn, Distinguished Professor at the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, launched clinical trials for a new testicular cancer drug therapy he developed. The new treatment led survival rates to go from 5% to 80%. 

Dr. Einhorn’s discovery shows the lifechanging impact of IU research, and I’m excited to share with you how that legacy of inquiry and innovation continues across our campuses.

Researchers at the IU School of Medicine received more than $243 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health during the 2023 fiscal year, an increase of more than $54 million over the past five years. Among other initiatives, this funding drives new developments in Alzheimer’s and diabetes research, addressing some of our nation’s most pressing healthcare challenges.

We’re also fighting the stigma around mental health through research at The Irsay Institute. Established with a generous $3 million gift from The Jim Irsay family, the institute brings together the health and social sciences and works with key partners across the state and nation to promote and provide better healthcare. 

Two new research institutes at IU Indianapolis are building on IU’s leadership in biosciences. The Convergent Bioscience and Technology Institute and the Institute for Human Health and Wellbeing — part of a $250 million investment — will explore the exciting intersection of life sciences and technology while ensuring our students gain hands-on experience and skills that will set them up for successful careers. I invite you to watch my recent discussion with IU Vice President for Research Russ Mumper and Phaedra Corso, associate vice president and vice chancellor for research at IU Indianapolis to learn more about these initiatives. 

I look forward to sharing updates like this with you regularly. It is important to me that you, our valued alumni, stay connected to the exciting developments happening at IU. Your support remains crucial to our progress toward the ambitious goals of our IU 2030 strategic plan, and I want you to feel like you’re part of the journey as we continue to achieve great things together.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to Indiana University. The incredible work of our faculty, staff students, and alumni drives us to push the boundaries of excellence. I look forward to working closely with the dedicated members of the IU Alumni Association as we advance our initiatives and celebrate our achievements. 

Pamela Whitten

President
Indiana University