The University of Guelph received the highest amount of research funding over the past 15 years among Canadian comprehensive universities, according to a new report from Research Infosource Inc.

U of G was the only comprehensive school in Canada to generate more than $2 billion in sponsored research income from 2001 to 2016, ahead of the University of Waterloo, the University of Victoria and York University.

Research Infosource tracks research and development at Canada’s most innovative schools, corporations and hospitals. It recently released a 15th anniversary “spotlight” report on university performance rankings for the past 15 years, with the findings announced in the Ottawa Citizen today and in the National Post Saturday.

“The University of Guelph has consistently been in the front rank of research universities thanks to the high quality and reach of its research and innovation activities,” said Ron Freedman, CEO of Research Infosource.

The University of Toronto topped the research income list among medical/doctoral universities, and Ryerson University led in the undergraduate category.

Comprehensive schools offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

“These results are a credit to the innovative and applicable research being conducted by our faculty, students and researchers,” said Malcolm Campbell, U of G’s vice-president (research).

“The work being done here is drawing support from government, academic agencies, research bodies, corporations and agencies. It proves that research at U of G is in demand, and that we are finding solutions for the challenges and issues in our world.”

Sponsored research income includes all funds supporting research, including grants, contributions and contracts.

“This recognition comes as a result of extensive work and dedication by our researchers,” said Campbell.

“We are grateful for the accomplishment, but also cognizant of the fact that there is still much to be done if we wish to maintain our high standing in Canada. We hope to continue generating top-quality research to improve life.”