Research, Creative Activities & Innovation > Welcome

Welcome

Daniela Stan Raicu, Ph.D. Associate Provost for Research

Welcome to the DePaul research website where we highlight the research, creativity, and innovation hallmarks of our institution. DePaul University is recognized as a R2 research university (Carnegie Classification of Institutions in Higher Education) and ranked as #2 on the list of “most innovative schools” in Illinois as well as #42 in the country according to the 2020 Best Colleges. DePaul University prides itself on research that is cutting-edge, multidisciplinary, and transformative. Our talented and diverse faculty who represent ten colleges and schools work collaboratively to advance knowledge in a large range of disciplines from education, mathematics, psychology, natural and environmental studies to shaping business theory and practice for today’s pressing societal issues, and to computing through programs in robotics, medical informatics, cyber-physical systems engineering, cybersecurity, and game design. Our faculty engage students in research as part of their academic program, and outside the classroom to enhance their skills and curiosity for advanced knowledge. Our world-renowned faculty are recognized for their research expertise by competitive grant awards, peer-reviewed publications, creative works, and national and international awards and recognitions. For example, in 2019, two faculty members received National Science Foundation CAREER awards, one of the most prestigious national awards for young faculty members.

Research collaborations extend globally beyond the DePaul University campuses, to include the City of Chicago’s communities and institutions, industry partners, and international collaborators. Grounded in the history and culture of DePaul, often these collaborations are inspired by the Vincentian question “What must be done?” to successfully respond to contemporary challenges and engage innovative thinking in the service of others. Faculty, students, and staff strive to use vision, creativity and determination to discover new pathways towards a more just and compassionate world, one that we would be proud to pass onto the next generation.

DePaul supports research and facilitates collaborations in a variety of ways. Seed funding to support innovative research and creative activities is offered through over 20 internal grant programs directed by the University Research Council, Quality of Instruction Council, the Public Service Council, and the $2M annual Academic Growth and Innovation Fund. The Office of Research Services and the Advancement Office supports research by assisting faculty, students, and staff in obtaining and administering intramural and extramural support, providing faculty development training programs, and providing comprehensive policy, procedures, and guidance to ensure compliance with relevant sponsored research project guidelines, and individual award terms and conditions. The DePaul library, the collaborative spaces, and the various centers and institutes are welcoming places to share ideas and leverage research resources available on the University’s two campuses.

At DePaul we go beyond responding to the latest trends by being the trailblazers in setting new trends in higher education. We create a state of restlessness – ensuring our academic community remains committed to innovation and creativity, and every member of our community can become truly engaged in the work of our university and make it their pathway to experiencing and changing the world around us. It is truly an honor and a privilege to be part of DePaul University’s collective efforts to shape the education of our students, create and advance knowledge, and provide service to our community and beyond.

Sincerely,

Daniela Stan Raicu, Ph.D.
Associate Provost for Research