The University of Iowa has 24 colleges and programs among the top 25 in the nation.

University of Iowa researchers have learned that animals may keep their options open even when they know a single choice will generate a reward. In experiments with pigeons, the researchers report they operated “at the edge of chaos,” meaning the birds balanced a consistent reward with exploring other options.

Kevin Campbell, UI professor and internationally recognized researcher in the field of muscular dystrophy, has been named the 2026 winner of the August M. Watanabe Prize in Translational Research, a prestigious award that recognizes significant contributions to translational research.

After 20 years and more than $4.5B raised, the UICA’s president and CEO prepares for retirement this summer.

A third-year student from Illinois was named a 2026 Goldwater Scholar, the nation’s most prestigious scholarship for undergraduate students pursuing careers in research.

Sheila Baldwin has been named the next president and CEO of the University of Iowa Center for Advancement (UICA). Baldwin currently serves as senior vice president for development for UICA and will begin the new role on May 4. Baldwin succeeds Lynette Marshall, who announced in July 2025 her plan to retire after leading the organization for 20 years.

The Office of the Vice President for Research has awarded funding to 12 interdisciplinary Iowa research teams to support the development of large, competitive grant proposals. By providing these teams with the strategic resources they need to build complex grant proposals, the UI is positioned to lead the nation in addressing some of our most pressing challenges.

The UI Council on Teaching has named five faculty members as the 2026 recipients of the Hubbard-Walder Award for Excellence in Teaching: Theresa Bechtel, Stella Elias, Elizabeth Heineman, Brian Lai, and Jan Steyn. Honorees demonstrated outstanding teaching and meaningful contributions to curriculum and program development.

Eighteen University of Iowa staff members received 2026 Staff Council Awards for achievements ranging from excellence in service to accomplishments that significantly benefit the university.

The 2026 Cancer in Iowa Report features findings from the Agricultural Health Study that show Iowa farmers had fewer than expected cancers overall compared with the general Iowa population after adjusting for age and sex. The report estimates 21,700 Iowans will be diagnosed with cancer this year, and about 6,400 will die from the disease.

Faculty and staff across the university were recognized in February with Hawkeye High-Fives thanking them for excellent patient care, dedication to their work, and innovation in onboarding new employees.