McGill University Climbs to Third in Research Rankings, Holds Second in Medicine

McGill University has achieved a notable milestone, rising to third overall in the latest annual rankings by Research Infosource, moving up from fourth place. The university has once again secured the second position in the medical research category, reaffirming its status as a leader in the field.

This improvement in rankings is largely attributed to a significant increase in research funding. In 2024, McGill attracted $749 million in sponsored research income from government, industry, and foundation partners. This represents a growth of more than nine per cent compared to the previous year, illustrating the university’s expanding financial support for research initiatives.

Research Intensity and Institutional Growth

Another critical factor in the rankings is research intensity, which Research Infosource measures by dividing total research funding by the number of full-time faculty members. McGill’s research intensity rose from $380,000 to $407,000, marking a seven-per-cent increase. This metric underscores the university’s commitment to maximizing the impact of its research activities.

Dominique BéRube, Vice-President (Research and Innovation) at McGill, commented on the university’s advancement in the rankings. “McGill’s advancement position in this year’s rankings and continued excellence of its medical school reflects the exceptional efforts of our researchers and the strength of the partnerships that support their work,” BéRube stated. “The University remains focused on driving innovation and ensuring that our research contributes to challenges facing communities in Quebec, Canada, and around the world.”

About Research Infosource

The results were announced on December 4, 2024, in the publication titled Canada’s Innovation Leaders 2025 (CIL2025). Research Infosource Inc. is an independent firm specializing in the analysis of Canadian research and development, providing valuable insights into the landscape of research institutions across the country.

As McGill continues to elevate its research profile, the university’s strategic focus on fostering innovation and addressing pressing global issues remains paramount. The latest rankings not only highlight McGill’s growing influence in the research community but also reflect its ongoing commitment to excellence in medical education.