The University of Alabama at Birmingham has been ranked the top young university in the United States in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings' 2018 Young University Rankings.

"This prestigious recognition directly reflects the dedication and hard work that our faculty, staff, students, alumni and community supporters have contributed to build tremendous, growing momentum in every pillar of our mission in less than 50 short years," said UAB President Ray L. Watts. "I celebrate and share this tremendous honor with everyone in the UAB community, as well as with those who came before us and built the strong foundation from which we continue to effect positive, global change."

UAB is the No. 10 young university worldwide, according to the rankings.

A young university is one that is 50 years old or younger.

Times Higher Education's university rankings are among the world's most comprehensive, balanced and trusted -- a vital resource trusted by academics, students, their families, industry and governments globally, according to UAB.

Times Higher Education ranked 250 institutions from 55 different countries in this year's Young University Rankings, which explores the same rigorous 13 performance indicators as the overall Times Higher Education's World University Rankings -- with young universities measured across their teaching, research, citations, international outlooks and industry incomes. However, the methodology has been recalibrated to have less emphasis on reputation since younger universities are still building their reputations.

UAB, which spans more than 100 city blocks -- roughly a quarter of downtown Birmingham -- will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2019.

With nearly 21,000 students and more than 23,000 faculty and staff, UAB is the largest single employer in Alabama, with an annual statewide economic impact exceeding $7.15 billion. It boasts many nationally ranked programs, including 13 graduate programs ranked in the top 25, according to U.S. News & World Report.

UAB has annual research expenditures exceeding $562 million. It is a leader in federal research funding -- ranking 23rd (top 4 percent) nationally and 8th (top 2 percent) among public institutions in funding from the National Institutes of Health.