Ambitious research projects that connect hundreds of faculty, students, community members and leading experts across every field to solve society’s toughest problems. By setting the sights of many on a common goal, we will have more impact than we have ever had before. The two Grand Challenges are the biggest, most collaborative, and potentially most transformative efforts UCLA has undertaken to date. The discoveries and scholarship produced are expected to deliver real benefit to California, the nation, and the world.

Giving back is part of our culture, and so is the optimist spirit that drives us to think grand and be fearless enough to take action. We are inspired to face problems on this scale, and with far-reaching breadth and depth, UCLA is uniquely positioned to achieve the goals of each Grand Challenge. Through sustained effort and the support of like-minded optimists, we will achieve these goals for the sake of everyone, everywhere.