Waterloo marks 17 straight years as Canada’s top research university

The University of Waterloo has been designated Research University of the Year in the comprehensive category by Research Infosource Inc. for the 17th consecutive year. Waterloo’s consistent ranking reflects the University’s continued leadership in research innovation, academic excellence and its significant impact on Canada’s economy.

“Congratulations to the entire research community here at the University of Waterloo for their continued excellence and dedication,” says Dr. Charmaine Dean, vice-president, Research and International at Waterloo. “Waterloo’s focus on commercialization, entrepreneurship and industry partnerships gives us a strategic advantage in a rapidly evolving research landscape. We remain committed to creating globally significant research that leverages our corporate partnerships to drive our cutting-edge innovations to impact in industry and elsewhere for societal benefit.” 

Waterloo also ranked first for research income and corporate research income among Canada’s Top 50 Research Universities in the comprehensive category, and second for not-for-profit research income in the same category.

Research Infosource’s Canada’s Top 50 Research Universities rankings are based on several key indicators, including research funding, the number of research publications and the commercialization of research. Waterloo has consistently excelled in all of these categories, establishing its position as a leader in Canada’s comprehensive research landscape.

From 2023 to 2024, Waterloo researchers secured more than $259 million in research funding from public and private sources. Waterloo’s focus on creating an environment where academic research thrives is complemented by its strong connections to industry and global research networks. With a vibrant ecosystem of innovation, Waterloo’s partnerships include leading technology companies, government agencies and non-profit organizations, all working together to tackle global challenges. 

Research plays a vital role in advancing knowledge and addressing both immediate challenges and long-term opportunities for the good of our communities and the world. Waterloo supports researchers in commercializing their innovations to deliver broad societal and economic benefits through research spanning fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, health sciences, sustainable energy, and more.

This recognition as Canada’s leading comprehensive research university for 17 consecutive years underscores Waterloo’s reputation as a hub for cutting-edge research and an institution that continues to shape the future of higher education in Canada and globally.