Harvard Launches $150 Million Research Initiative

Harvard University has launched a $150 million research initiative, planning a range of awards across the basic and applied sciences.

The university said the program seeks to meet "moment of remarkable opportunity."

The initiative was announced on September 29, 2026.

Harvard also highlighted recent work from its researchers, including a study linking a rare mutation to a sharply increased lung cancer risk in people who have never smoked. That study also detailed the U.S. regions most affected.

Separately, the university described how Harvard scientists built a genomics outpost on Gloucester harbor. The institute promotes healthy fisheries, trains a local workforce, and seeks clues to longevity.

Harvard also pointed readers to an archived explainer on earworms, examining why a song gets stuck in your head and how to get rid of it.

Upcoming featured events include a literary evening with Volodymyr Rafeyenko hosted by the Ukrainian Research Institute, a conversation with Cory Doctorow at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society, and a Ming Mei Residency Concert with Amir ElSaffar and Susie Ibarra with Claire Chase.