Governor’s University Research Initiative (GURI)

The Governor’s University Research Initiative (GURI) is a strategic program launched by the State of Texas, specifically through the Office of the Governor's Economic Development and Tourism division. Enacted by the 84th Texas Legislature in 2015, GURI aims to support public institutions of higher education in Texas in their efforts to recruit world-renowned researchers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine. This initiative is intended to raise the academic standing of Texas institutions while simultaneously advancing statewide economic development and innovation competitiveness. The overarching goal is to enhance the national and global influence of Texas-based research capabilities. GURI functions as a matching grant program, providing cost-reimbursement grants to eligible public universities in Texas. The state will contribute up to $5 million per distinguished researcher recruited. A 1:1 match is required from the applying institution, using immediately available funds from sources other than appropriated general revenue. Grant funds are reimbursed only for documented and approved expenditures and cannot be used to meet match requirements for other grants. Eligible cost categories include a one-time salary supplement, professional and consultant services, travel, equipment, supplies, construction, and direct operating expenses. Ineligible costs include general salaries and benefits (beyond the supplement), lobbying, entertainment, indirect costs, and recruitment of ineligible candidates. To qualify, applicant institutions must be public general academic teaching institutions or health-related institutions under Texas Education Code guidelines. The proposed researcher must be a Nobel Laureate, a member of the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, or Medicine, or must have attained equivalent national academic recognition per 19 TAC §190.1(4), subject to the Governor’s Office approval. Recruitment must be for candidates outside of other eligible or independent Texas institutions. The grant proposal must also be supported by the president of the institution, the governing board, or the University System chancellor. Preference is given to recruitment efforts that show potential to improve Texas’s competitiveness and foster nationally or internationally recognized research centers. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with no fixed submission deadline, and must be submitted through the GURI Online Portal. The application process involves a detailed submission including proof of the candidate’s credentials, recruitment narratives, proposed research impact, commercialization potential, and timelines for both recruitment and fund expenditure. Letters of support, budget worksheets, and a signed statement of assurances must also be included. The proposed employment date for the researcher must fall within 12 months of the application submission date. Applications that are incomplete or submitted in an incorrect format will not be reviewed. Once submitted, applications are reviewed by an Advisory Board which recommends approval or disapproval. Final funding decisions are made by the Governor’s Office at its sole discretion and are not subject to appeal. Successful applicants will receive notification via email and will be required to execute a formal Grant Agreement. Reimbursement occurs only after expenses are incurred and documented. Additional reporting requirements are imposed to ensure compliance and transparency, and grantees must participate in reporting to support legislative oversight. There is no explicit mention of the program being issued on a recurring schedule; however, since applications are accepted continuously, institutions are encouraged to engage early with the application materials and portal. Assistance is available via the official GURI program email and phone contact, and a comprehensive Application Kit and Budget Worksheet are accessible through the program’s website. Interested institutions must adhere strictly to application requirements and submission protocols to be considered for funding.