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A Century of Discovery: 100 Years of VA Research

NF/SGVHS will be hosting a “100 Years of Research” event in celebration of this milestone at the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center.
NF/SGVHS will be hosting a “100 Years of Research” event in celebration of this milestone at the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center on November 6, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

By Katie Butler, Public Affairs Specialist

This year VA celebrates a century of impactful research dedicated to improving health outcomes and enhancing the lives of not only Veterans, but all Americans.

Significant achievements in VA research encompass several groundbreaking developments, including the introduction of computed tomography (CT) scans in 1961, the first successful liver transplant performed in 1967, the invention of the nicotine patch in 1984, and the identification of a link between Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS) and military service in 2003.

These accomplishments, while just a few examples, highlight the vital role that VA research plays in advancing medical science and improving lives worldwide.

The North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SGVHS) research program is driven by a strong commitment to advancing care for Veterans. The NF/SGVHS research program currently supports 115 active human subjects and medical records studies led by a team of 40 dedicated research and administrative professionals along with 134 affiliates from the University of Florida and North Florida Foundation for Research and Education. 

In fiscal year 2025 alone, 27 NF/SGVHS research projects received funding from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. The NF/SGVHS research program operates across 28,595 square feet of research space and utilizes more than 1,500 pieces of specialized equipment to carry out this important work.

“As we mark the 100-year milestone of VA research, we honor a century of impact. But anniversaries aren’t endpoints — they’re launchpads,” said Dr. Paul Lawrence VA Deputy Secretary.

“So, we’re not just looking back with pride — we’re looking ahead — with conviction, promise, and purpose. Because the next century starts now.” 

For more information on NF/SGVHS, please visit https://www.va.gov/north-florida-health-care/.