Research or Regress with a background of image cards that show medical training, flooding, and PTSD

Progress Isn’t Promised

At Penn State, our research focuses on what matters—protecting the future and securing America's leadership.

But what happens if it stops?

Research with Real Impact

From life-saving medical treatments to sustainable agriculture that feeds our communities, research makes our lives healthier, our nation safer, and our economy stronger.

What if we could prevent disasters before they strike? A flooded street with 3 cars in the water. People stand nearby observing. There is an overlay that says: Your Safety

A flooded street with 3 cars in the water. People stand nearby observing. There is an overlay that says: Your Safety

What if we could prevent disasters before they strike?

Pittsburgh's aging infrastructure is crumbling. Penn State research gives the city early warnings to prevent disasters and save money.

What if there was a better way to heal broken ribs? A collage of a bicyclist in a race, an x-ray of rib bones, and a hospital patient in pain. There is an overlay that says Your Health

A collage of a bicyclist in a race, an x-ray of rib bones, and a hospital patient in pain. There is an overlay that says Your Health

What if there was a better way to heal broken ribs?

Broken ribs cause agonizing pain and dangerous complications. Penn State created a better way to repair them with fewer risks and less pain.

What if Pennsylvania apples disappeared? Five apples growing form a tree on a sunny day

What if Pennsylvania apples disappeared?

Apple growers face high-stakes choices each season. Penn State's blossom thinning technology helps farmers grow better fruit with fewer chemicals.

What if small towns built big tech? A split screen where one half is medical professionals taking an ultrasound and the other is a Pennsylvania town. There is an overlay that says Your Health.

A split screen where one half is medical professionals taking an ultrasound and the other is a Pennsylvania town. There is an overlay that says Your Health.

What if small towns built big tech?

Manufacturing jobs left rural towns. Penn State is helping bring them back through lifesaving ultrasound research.

What if parenting wasn’t so stressful? A mother crouched over in distress in a dark hallway with her child. There is an overlay that says Your Family.

What if parenting wasn’t so stressful?

Raising a family can be stressful. Penn State is helping parents build stronger relationships and happier families.

What if sustainable clothing could protect soldiers? A split image of military uniform samples and a beige knit fabric. There is an overlay that says 'your health'

A split image of military uniform samples and a beige knit fabric. There is an overlay that says 'your health'

What if sustainable clothing could protect soldiers?

Military uniforms still rely on toxic, outdated materials. Penn State’s Procell fiber offers safer, stronger protection without harmful chemicals.

See More Research in Action

Farmers who raise healthy chickens help keep supermarket shelves stocked. We partner with Pennsylvania farmers to protect the supply of America’s favorite protein.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer. Penn State’s new procedure gives patients peace of mind and a second chance at life.

Many Pennsylvania levees aren’t certified. Penn State offers low-cost ways to help towns meet standards, protect homes, and save money.

Car accidents from underage drinking are a leading cause of teen death. Penn State's program helps parents talk to their kids to prevent unsafe behavior.

What if we sustainably sourced rare materials crucial for national security? Penn State researchers are extracting these critical minerals from Pennsylvania’s old mine waste.

Millions have liver disease and don’t know it until it’s too late. Penn State is using exercise as medicine to reverse damage.

Voices for Change

Across Penn State, voices are being heard far beyond campus. Faculty, staff, and researchers are speaking up in national and Pennsylvania news outlets—sharing powerful stories that underscore how vital our research is—and why continued support is more urgent than ever.

America’s Research Advantage Is Slipping Away

Penn State research leader Andrew Read explains how decades of collaboration between universities and federal agencies have fueled discovery—and what’s at stake if that support fades.

Read the full Q&A in the Penn Stater.

Defunding Chemistry Research Could Cost Pennsylvania Billions

Pennsylvania’s chemical research fuels innovation, good jobs, and billions in economic growth. Penn State chemist Kenneth Knappenberger warns that federal cuts could jeopardize all three.

Read the analysis in the PA Capital-Star.

Federal Funding Cuts for Medical Research Will Hurt Pennsylvanians

What if the cure your loved one needs never gets discovered? Penn State dean Karen Kim says medical research cuts threaten lives and must be stopped.

See Karen Kim's perspective in PennLive.

Pennsylvania Well Testing Cut After Federal Funding Ends

Toxic chemicals may be hiding in your well. Penn State grad student Kelly Kosiarski warns that funding cuts are threatening the testing that keeps families safe.

See the article in Erie Times-News.

Federal Research Cuts Could Put Your Future at Risk

Penn State research keeps Americans safe, healthy, and competitive, but it depends on federal funding. Protecting research means protecting our future.

At risk: Research to improve your health

Research is behind the care your family counts on—from stroke treatment to safer pregnancies.

At risk: Research to protect your food supply and natural resources

From the farms that feed us to the bees that keep crops growing, research protects the food on your table.

At risk: Research to strengthen your infrastructure

Whether it’s your power, your home, or preparing for the next big storm, research helps keep your community safe, ready, and strong.

At risk: Research to fuel your economy

The economy depends on forward-thinking ideas. Without research, we stall progress and the jobs that come with it.

Sign the Petition