In The News: Local Media Spotlight $1 Million Federal Research Grant

Students in a lab
Rendering of the CMR primary lab, opening Feb. 26.
January 23, 2026
Gonzaga University News Service

Gonzaga University is receiving $1 million in federal funding to support advanced science and engineering research. The funding, included in a federal spending bill, will support Gonzaga’s Center for Materials Research in the School of Engineering and Applied Science. KHQ reported the grant is part of a broader investment supporting science projects at four Washington universities.

According to The Spokesman-Review, Gonzaga and Washington State University will receive a combined $3 million to expand research infrastructure and capacity.

“These investments help universities expand hands-on research opportunities while supporting workforce development,” The Spokesman-Review reported.

Jennifer Shepherd, interim dean of Gonzaga’s School of Engineering and Applied Science, said the funding will allow the University to complete remaining equipment purchases needed to fully build out the Center for Materials Research.

“This will help position Gonzaga as a regional leader in materials testing across all length scales,” Shepherd said. “The equipment will support sponsored research and partnerships with industry, government and academic collaborators.”

Shepherd added that the investment will directly benefit students: “This equipment will be used in Gonzaga courses and research labs, giving students hands-on access to state-of-the-art instruments and practical experience with technologies used by professionals in the field.”

Learn about the Center for Materials Research
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