Welcome from Dr. Can Saygin

It is a great privilege to welcome you to the Division of Research at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Our commitment to advancing research and fostering innovation is at the core of our mission to transform the Rio Grande Valley into a hub of groundbreaking research and development. We are dedicated to supporting our students, faculty, and staff as they undertake impactful research that contributes to the betterment of our community. 

Our vision is to establish UTRGV as a Regional Research University, recognized for its excellence in research, innovation, and community impact. We achieve this through strategic initiatives and a focus on key research pathways, including Data Sciences, Analysis, and Security; Living on the US-Mexico Border; Environment and Sustainability; Clinical and Translational Research; Space Sciences; Technology; and Innovation and Economic Impact. Each of these pathways is designed to address critical challenges and opportunities, driving our region’s progress and prosperity. 

Over the past year, we have made significant strides in increasing our research expenditures, enhancing our research infrastructure, and fostering collaborative partnerships. Our faculty’s dedication and our students' enthusiasm have been instrumental in these achievements. As we continue to grow, we are committed to building a robust research environment that supports our goal of becoming an Emerging Research University and then achieving Carnegie R1 status.  

Thank you for your interest in UTRGV's research enterprise. We invite you to explore our programs, engage with our community, and join us on our journey towards research excellence. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the Rio Grande Valley and beyond. 

Dr. Can (John) Saygin 
Senior Vice President for Research 
Dean of the Graduate College