Person working in a laboratory with a clear tube, partially obscured with a deep blue radial dot pattern

Research at the University of Minnesota doesn’t stop at discovery. It moves forward to make change, improve lives, inform policy, and strengthen communities in Minnesota and beyond.

Driving Innovations that
Improve Life for Everyone

Research at the University of Minnesota combines the power of extensive
and collaborative research disciplines and proven market expertise to create
innovations that benefit society. 

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) helps facilitate collaborative research designed to solve our most complex problems.

Learn more about RIO

12th
among US public research institutions
$1.35B
in systemwide research expenditures
286
startup companies launched since 2006
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Research Impact
______________

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Maroon Background--Text: Grant-in-Aid Program --RIO

Spring 2026 Grant-in-Aid Competition Opens January 5

December 10, 2025

Applications will be accepted starting January 5 for the spring 2026 Grant-in-Aid of Research, Artistry, and Scholarship program, sponsored by the Research and Innovation Office. 

Illustration of a stylized certificate with a golden seal and decorative stars around it.

24 U of M Researchers Named Among World's Most Cited in 2025

December 10, 2025

Twenty-four University of Minnesota researchers recognized by Clarivate as being among the world's most cited and influential scientists in 2025.

Researchers in PPE while working in a NC A&T clean room.

RIO Funds Five More Phase I Projects for NC A&T UMN Research Partnership Phase I

December 9, 2025

The Research and Innovation Office has awarded five additional Phase I projects as part of the NC A&T and UMN Research Partnership.

Attendees at a gala dinner inside a modern venue with wooden paneled walls and ceiling, listening to a speaker at a podium with another speaker featured on a large screen.

2025 Corporate Engagement Dinner Brings Together University and Industry Leaders

December 2, 2025

The University of Minnesota’s Corporate Engagement Center hosted its annual dinner on November 13, 2025, bringing together University, corporate, and research leaders.

NSRI Seed Grants.

RIO’s National Security Research Institute Launches Seed Grants

December 1, 2025

NSRI seed grants will help advance national security research and education at the University while connecting PIs to NSRI’s initiatives. In 2026, the program will fund at least six awards of up to $100,000 each for one year.

Portrait of Joanne Billings

Joanne Billings to Serve as Interim Vice President for Research and Innovation

December 1, 2025

Joanne Billings will serve as interim vice president for research and innovation starting December 1. Billings is a faculty member in the Department of Medicine, a pulmonary and critical care physician specializing in cystic fibrosis (CF) and clinical trials, and also serves as the AVP for research integrity and compliance.