Research and Development
Access the expertise and innovations of academia with the speed and drive of industry. DPI’s Applied R&D team partners scientists with universities, government labs, and businesses on climate, AI/ML, food, and fintech research to build a stronger future for all of us—in Illinois and around the globe.
Dive into our latest applied R&D initiatives.
DPI collaborates on a wide variety of research and development initiatives with public and private stakeholders to advance the planet and society. Take a closer look below at some of our key applied R&D efforts.
Leverage research into Illinois education, workforce development, and training for tech.
The Illinois Workforce and Education Research Collaborative (IWERC) provides data-based analysis to our state’s policy and education leaders’ questions. IWERC complements DPI’s ambitions to improve education and training for in-demand tech jobs as well as conduct applied research.
Bring climate science down to earth.
DPI’s climate team works with federal agencies, industry, and academic partners to build a climate intelligence ecosystem that translates state-of-the-art climate science into focused solutions, services, and climate policy guidance.
Access international research teams decarbonizing road transportation.
The Clean Energy and Equitable Transportation Solutions (CLEETS) NSF-UKRI Global Center brings together eminent climate, energy, data science, and transportation experts in two regions to advance interdisciplinary research and community engagement. CLEETS identifies solutions that accelerate equitable, use-inspired decarbonized road transportation.
Find interdisciplinary cannabis researchers and resources.
The Cannabis Research Institute performs research from seeds to social outcomes under one roof, delivering information tailored to stakeholders including the general public, legislators, and policy makers.
Improve public health outcomes by monitoring wastewater.
Wastewater-Based Epidemiology monitors a variety of pathogens in wastewater around the state of Illinois to provide rapid assessment of public health crises. The structures being set up enable rapid response to future pandemics.
Bring responsible and safe AI to organizations.
The AI Consulting Practice develops frameworks and tools for organizations to adopt responsible and safe deployment of artificial intelligence.
Are you a University of Illinois faculty member and researcher? Join DPI today.
DPI members play an important role in all DPI activities. Learn about the benefits of becoming a member and be part of our efforts in tech talent development, applied R&D, and business building.
Discover What's New
Recent announcements from the Discovery Partners Institute.
Pritzker Tech Talent Labs 5-Year Impact Report
- DPI News
- December 10, 2025
Bridging academic silos with IMPACT
- DPI News
- December 8, 2025