The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell has been recognized among the nation’s top medical schools for research, earning a Tier 2 designation in the 2026 Best Graduate Schools rankings released by U.S. News & World Report.
The school ranked among the top three in New York and in the top half of medical schools nationwide for research excellence, according to the report.
The recognition comes amid a challenging funding climate for medical research, including reductions in grants from the National Institutes of Health. Research activity now accounts for 60 percent of a school’s overall ranking in the U.S. News methodology, making federal funding levels a critical factor.
Despite those pressures, the Zucker School of Medicine has maintained a strong research performance, supported by its academic programs and institutional partnerships.
U.S. News evaluates research-focused medical schools based on faculty resources, funding and the strength of training programs for physician-scientists. At Zucker, MD/PhD and PhD programs emphasize the study of human disease, translational research and applying scientific discoveries in patient care.
A key component of the school’s research environment is its partnership with Northwell Health, the state’s largest health care provider. The affiliation gives students access to an extensive clinical network, diverse patient populations and advanced research facilities.
“We are incredibly proud that our dedication to impactful research has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report, amidst federal funding challenges,” said David Battinelli, the Deborah and Lawrence Smith dean of the medical school. “This recognition is a testament to our commitment to pioneering discovery.”
Battinelli said students “benefit tremendously” from research opportunities across Northwell’s system, including the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, as well as collaborations with institutions such as Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.
Since opening 15 years ago, the Zucker School of Medicine has built a reputation for hands-on learning, innovative programming and a strong emphasis on research. Graduates have gone on to match into competitive specialties, including surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery, as well as primary care fields such as internal medicine, pediatrics and family medicine.
According to a nationwide survey conducted by the Association of American Medical Colleges, program directors report that Zucker graduates consistently exceed national expectations in professionalism, clinical skills and systems-based practice.
More information about the school and its research programs is available on its website.
