UT researchers are redefining how to tackle grand challenges. Collaboration and partnerships yield innovations that make life and lives better.
UT is Tennessee’s flagship public research university. Our research community draws on expertise in agriculture, architecture and design, business and law, the creative and performing arts, humanities, social and behavioral sciences, computing and engineering, education and health, and the natural sciences and mathematics to create a more just, prosperous, and sustainable future for the citizens of Tennessee and communities the world over.
Advanced Energy Leadership
UT is a leader in advanced energy research, enjoying collaborations with 16 of the US Department of Energy’s national labs. UT has a unique relationship with nearby Oak Ridge National Laboratory—a partnership strengthened through the UT–Oak Ridge Innovation Institute.
Humanists Making a Difference
Through the renowned scholarship of our humanities faculty and students, UT invites and advances public conversations about social and cultural issues central to human flourishing, justice, equality, and ethical action in the world.
Working with Tennessee Communities for Tennessee Communities
UT faculty and students work with community leaders and organizations throughout Tennessee to make life and lives better. From UT Law’s pro bono work, our Community–University Research Collaborative Initiative and AgExtension’s deep engagement in rural communities, UT research is making a difference.
Facts and Stats
UT is a top producer of National Science Foundation Early Career Awardees and National Endowment for the Humanities Fellows and is ranked sixth nationally for US Department of Energy funding.
Innovation Gateways
Research at UT is strategically organized around broad focus areas we call gateways. We break down disciplinary boundaries and draw upon the strengths of our faculty expertise, facilities, and partnerships to tackle complex challenges.
Advanced Materials and Manufacturing
The design, synthesis, and characterization of new materials and their production at scale are critical to advances in areas as diverse as architecture and design, computing and communications, energy and mobility, and medicine. UT has unique research strengths in areas such as quantum materials, polymers and composites, materials for extremes, and additive manufacturing.
Discover the Institute for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing
Artificial Intelligence
Advances that deepen our understanding of artificial intelligence, produce new technologies and tools, and expand their reach and impact in responsible and ethical ways lie at the heart of this initiative. State-of-the-art AI is driving transdisciplinary discovery and innovation at UT in areas ranging from high-energy physics, life sciences, communications, and education to climate-smart agriculture and precision health.
Energy and Environment
The multifaceted nature of energy issues requires expertise from various fields to develop comprehensive solutions. UT brings expertise in biofuels, ecology, grid resilience, renewable energy, policy formation, precision agriculture, and natural resource management.
Future Mobility
Advances in electrification and digitization promise to revolutionize the future of mobility at a scale that will transform the movement of people and goods all over the world. UT brings together deep expertise in global supply chain, grid and battery technologies, cyber–physical systems, computer and network systems, and cybersecurity.
Human Health and Wellness
A transdisciplinary translational research approach is needed to solve large, complex problems. UT is focused on addressing health disparities, achieving food and nutrition security, and advancing individualized medicine through big data analysis and algorithms.
Partner with UT
We take an active place-based approach to discovery, innovation, and economic development and develop innovative solutions with external partners.
Develop Your Next Big Idea
UT faculty and students—discover how UT’s resources can help you realize your entrepreneurial ambitions.