SW New Mexico News

New Mexico State University (NMSU) has reported research expenditures of $141 million for 2024, indicating a significant increase in funds spent on research activities. This figure is part of the preliminary data collected for the National Science Foundation’s Higher Education Research and Development Survey. The most notable rise in expenditures was observed in the fields of biological and biomedical sciences.

Luis Cifuentes, NMSU's vice president of research, creativity, and economic development, commented on this achievement: “Behind this exciting HERD number are talented, hard-working, creativity faculty, students and staff who have overperformed on a key performance indicator in our LEADS 2025 Strategic Plan.”

In addition to biological sciences, other areas that saw substantial increases include Extension animal resources, chemistry and biochemistry, as well as NMSU’s Research Cores Program. This program plays a crucial role in enhancing sustainability and accessibility for researchers at the university.

Lakshmi Reddi, NMSU interim Provost, emphasized the importance of these developments: “NMSU’s growth in research expenditures underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence. Our faculty, staff and students are not only meeting benchmarks but setting new standards for research impact. As we move closer to R1 status, we aim to sustain this momentum, foster collaboration and expand our research across both STEM and non-STEM fields. This achievement highlights the impact of NMSU’s research and creativity.”

Since hitting a low point in 2018, NMSU's research expenditures have been steadily increasing. If current trends persist, projections suggest that next year's expenditures could approach $160 million.

Cifuentes also noted that NMSU's current levels exceed the baseline requirements for R1 institutions. He pointed out that along with increased post-doctoral fellows and expanded doctoral programs since 2018, these elements highlight the strength of NMSU’s research initiatives.

As NMSU approaches its goal of achieving R1 designation by 2025, it plans to maintain its current expenditure levels in STEM fields while boosting investments in non-STEM areas. The university also aims to increase external funding for Ph.D. students particularly within humanities and social sciences.