As a public research university and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, Rutgers has particular strengths to offer as faculty members across multiple disciplines are seeking solutions to some of the world's most significant challenges. Faculty research at Rutgers attracted more than $300 million in federal, state, corporate, and foundation grants last year. President McCormick has identified several discrete areas of academic opportunity in which Rutgers can capitalize on interdisciplinary strength, the availability of resources, distinctive excellence, and relevance to the needs of the state, the nation, and the world.

These areas include climate change, renewable energy, advanced materials and devices, nanotechnology, stem cell research, transportation, nutrition, and homeland security. Dr. McCormick, in consultation with executive vice president Philip Furmanski and the university's faculty, has placed a priority on these research areas and on seeking the funding to develop these as areas of international distinction for Rutgers.