George Washington and His World: Enslaver, Revolutionary, President
Research & Discovery
At Columbian College, scholars and scientists join student researchers to challenge assumptions and
Advance the forefronts of knowledge.
Research
Discovery and innovation are a Columbian College tradition—from our century-long research partnership with the Smithsonian Institution to our state-of-the-art Science and Engineering Hall. As a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), George Washington University is a distinguished leader in global research. Whether our scholars are observing celestial bodies light years from Earth or examining the roots of diseases like tuberculosis and malaria, Columbian College faculty and students are uncovering age-old mysteries and finding solutions to 21st-century challenges.
14
CCAS research centers
and institutes
$16.1M
annual college research expenditures
490+
permanent full-time faculty members
850+
average annual
faculty media hits
CCAS Research Is Transforming Lives
Every day, researchers at GW's Columbian College take on some of the world’s toughest challenges, delivering real-world impact and insights through their relentless pursuit of knowledge and a deeper understanding of our world. From developing technology that advances early disease detection to building trustworthy AI systems and next-generation computer chips, much of their work is made possible through vital federal investments.
With support from the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, NASA, the Department of Defense and other federal agencies, GW advances medical innovations, fuels economic growth and prepares the next generation of leaders.
Impact
Faculty Research
Columbian College faculty are prolific authors, awarding-winning scholars, innovators and artists. They are recipients of Guggenheims, Pulitzers and NEH fellowships, and are published in top media outlets and journals.
Student Research
From labs and classrooms on campus to field sites around the globe, Columbian College students work side-by-side with world-renowned researchers and scholars on a journey of cultural and scientific discovery.
Centers & Institutes
Columbian College is home to top research centers and institutes that explore an array of issues and ideas such as the origins of humankind, the inner workings of the brain and the growth of solar energy.
"Interacting with other researchers is inspirational, they can give you new ideas and new ways of seeing things. We all leave here with stronger final products."
Marielle Cornes
BA '25, History
Faculty Books
Faculty Research Conversations
The Cultural Impact of American Music
In a video conversation with Dean Paul Wahlbeck, Professor of Music Loren Kajikawa discusses how the power of music can serve as a medium for change.
Understanding Behavioral Development
In a video conversation with Dean Wahlbeck, Cognitive Neuroscience Professor Gabriella Rosenblau discusses how social cognition develops in childhood, particularly for those with autism.
Research Making Headlines
George Washington, Reconsidered
Patriot, president, enslaver. In a new book and a longstanding class, GW historian Denver Brunsman embraces the complex legacy of a flawed American icon.
Tipping Point: Researchers Warn of Harmful AI Shifts
In a new study, physics researchers proposed a formula for determining when AI goes bad.
Loneliness and Local News: How ‘News Deserts’ Increase Isolation
A new study by GW political science researchers found that the decline of local news is leaving Americans less informed—and more isolated.
Ready for Liftoff: Student Joins NASA Telescope Team
Astrophysics graduate student Zane Pennella worked behind the scenes on NASA’s Roman Space Telescope to prepare for its historic launch.
Global Study Indicates Widespread Permafrost Degradation
An international study led by Dmitry Streletskiy and student researchers indicates clear global evidence that permafrost is thawing across much of the planet.
The Mystery of the Secret Shroud
Hannah Faberman, BA ’26, spent two years tracking down an Egyptian textile fragment, following a trail of clues from pigments and to archaeological records.