Welcome to the 100th Anniversary of VA Research. Since its inception in 1925, VA Research has remained steadfast in its commitment to advancing medical and scientific knowledge to benefit Veterans and all Americans. This milestone represents more than just the passage of time—it embodies a legacy of science and service that has impacted millions of lives and shaped our nation’s medical landscape. This website celebrates many of the accomplishments of VA researchers and staff over the last century, reflecting on where we have been, and fixing our heading for our second century.
VA’s researchers are instrumental in translating science into actionable solutions that ensure our medical practices are safe, effective, and Veteran-centered. This year we honored six VA researchers that continue the tradition of creating actionable solutions for Veterans at the live-streamed Research Week award presentation. These researchers made significant medical breakthroughs in Veteran health care, ranging from discovery of a medication that successfully treats hospitalized cases of COVID-19 to an invention that restores upper limb movement to paralyzed Veterans. The ceremony also featured speeches from the Deputy Secretary of the VA, the honorable Dr. Paul Lawrence, and the acting Under Secretary for Health, Dr. Steven Lieberman.
“We’re building tools to detect diseases earlier, treat them more effectively, and ensure every Veteran — regardless of background or condition — has access to the high-quality care they have earned and deserve,” Dr. Lawrence said at the 2025 VA Research Week Awards Ceremony. “As we mark the 100-year milestone of VA research, we honor a century of impact. But anniversaries aren’t endpoints — they’re launchpads. So, we’re not just looking back with pride — we’re looking ahead — with conviction, promise, and purpose. Because the next century starts now.”
The Deputy Secretary also recognized the contributions of Veteran volunteers in clinical trials and expressed his and Secretary Collins’ support for research and its benefit to millions of Veterans. More excerpts from Dr. Lawrence’s speech can be found on his LinkedIn page.
Over its 100-year history, the VA Research Program has significantly enhanced the health and well-being of countless Veterans nationwide and revolutionized the field of medicine. Virtually every American will benefit from a drug, therapy, treatment, or device developed through VA Research at some point in their life. To memorialize this event, the Office of Research and Development produced a six-panel poster exhibition to showcase the VA Research Program, highlighting its origins, experts, accomplishments, and impacts.
The exhibition was developed to educate Veterans and the general public on the value of the VA Research program and its contributions to the nation. The posters will be displayed in public spaces within VA medical centers and clinics nationwide.
+ Click the posters below to enlarge
"VA Research at 100" on the VA History Office's website highlights the VA's long-standing commitment to advancing medical research and improving healthcare for Veterans. Through articles, exhibits, and videos the site emphasizes key milestones and innovations throughout resulting from VA's research efforts, including pioneering work in mental health, toxic exposure, rehabilitation, and more.
To learn more about VA's historical accomplishments, visit the VA Research at 100 page of the VA’s History Website. This site has multiple articles and photos about some of VA’s most significant contributions and researchers, ranging from the first liver transplant to prototype CT scanners and artificial limbs.
In addition to the VA’s Research Week award ceremony in Washington, D.C., dozens of facilities across the country held local Research events as well. Some of those events are listed below.
