Boosted by soccer and lacrosse national titles, Carolina accumulated the most points in a combination of NCAA championships and major poll finishes.
UNC-Chapel Hill rose one spot on the annual list and was recognized as No. 1 in financial aid and No. 2 best value without aid among publics.
College of Arts and Science scholars will collaborate on studies about food waste, knee arthritis, hip-hop history, language models and more.
The $8,000 prize recognizes groundbreaking, innovative research and future career promise.