Shreveport, Louisiana, August 22, 2025
News Summary
LSU Health Shreveport has reached significant milestones in external research funding, reporting over $24 million secured from various sources, marking a 13% increase from the previous year. This funding surge is supported by local contributions amid federal cuts, focusing on cardiovascular and cancer research. Plans are underway to transform a former retail space into a new innovative research facility, expected to create jobs and enhance community engagement in research efforts.
Shreveport, Louisiana – LSU Health Shreveport has achieved a significant milestone in its fiscal year 2025 by setting record levels for external research funding. The academic medical center reported an increase of over 13% compared to the previous year, marking the largest year-over-year growth in external research funding since 2018. The institution received more than $24 million from various government sources, including the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Defense, as well as from private foundations like the American Heart Association.
This surge in funding has been facilitated by substantial local support from the LSU Health Foundation, which has played a crucial role in maintaining funding levels amidst national federal cuts. With a renewed focus on cardiovascular and cancer research, LSU Health Shreveport is actively engaging the community in fundraising efforts to further enhance their research capabilities.
To bolster its research initiatives, LSU Health Shreveport plans to convert the former Sears Department Store located at Mall St. Vincent into a cutting-edge research facility. This project, estimated to cost $50 million, will not require any state funding. The new facility is expected to accommodate approximately 40 new investigators and their teams, potentially generating hundreds of jobs once it opens. Renovation of the 160,000 square foot building is scheduled to begin within the next 90 days, with a projected opening date set for mid-to-late 2027.
LSU Health Shreveport was also selected as the site for the U.S. Department of Defense’s National Disaster Medical System Pilot Program, attributed to its strategic proximity to Barksdale Air Force Base. In the past year, the institution has notably increased its scholarly output, publishing in more academic journals and filing more patent applications. Additionally, 14 faculty members have been recruited from prestigious institutions such as Columbia University and Johns Hopkins University, boosting the research profile of LSU Health Shreveport.
Leading the research efforts is Dr. Oren Rom, whose leadership has contributed to the institution’s growing reputation, particularly in the areas of cardiovascular and metabolic research. The announcement of the new research facility by Dr. David Guzick underscored its potential to strengthen the region’s economy, provide valuable space for current researchers, and support future grant applications.
The trajectory of progress at LSU Health Shreveport, marked by record funding and ambitious plans for future infrastructure, highlights the institution’s commitment to advancing research and improving health outcomes in the community.
FAQs
What is the total amount of external research funding LSU Health Shreveport received in FY 2025?
LSU Health Shreveport received more than $24 million in external research funding from various sources.
What government sources contributed to the funding?
The funding included contributions from the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Defense.
What are the focus areas of research at LSU Health Shreveport?
LSU Health Shreveport is focusing on cardiovascular and cancer research.
What is the estimated cost and timeline for the new research facility?
The estimated cost for the new facility is $50 million, with renovations expected to begin within 90 days and an opening projected for mid-to-late 2027.
How many new investigators will the new facility accommodate?
The new facility will accommodate around 40 new investigators and their teams.
Key Features of LSU Health Shreveport’s Growth
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| FY 2025 External Funding | Over $24 million received, marking a 13% increase from 2024. |
| New Research Facility | Conversion of a 160,000 sq. ft. building at Mall St. Vincent, estimated cost $50 million. |
| Employment Opportunities | Potential to create hundreds of jobs with 40 new investigators. |
| Research Focus | Emphasis on cardiovascular and cancer research with significant community support. |
| Strategic Partnerships | Selected for the U.S. Department of Defense’s Pilot Program due to proximity to Barksdale Air Force Base. |
| Increased Scholarly Output | More publications and patent applications than previous year. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Louisiana Unveils Comprehensive Economic Development Plan
Mall St. Vincent in Shreveport Under New Ownership
Potential Sale of Former South Park Mall Property in Shreveport
Harvard Challenges Federal Funding Cuts in Court
Shreveport Kicks Off Bicentennial Countdown with Ceremony
LSU President William Tate IV to Depart for Rutgers University
LSU Leads Financial Revolution in College Athletics
Proposed Medicaid Cuts Threaten Rural Hospitals’ Survival
Shreveport Launches Economic Development One-Stop Shop
Additional Resources
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate
- Wikipedia: LSU Health Shreveport
- KSLA News
- Google Search: LSU Health Shreveport
- KTAL News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Health Research
- Bossier Press
- Google Scholar: LSU Health Shreveport
- KTBS
- Google News: LSU Health Shreveport
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
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