Office of Research and Innovation, February 24, 2026
R&I releases research identity framework and will host ideation workshops
The Office of Research and Innovation has released the final version of the research identity framework and will host a series of workshops in March and April to help faculty begin generating initial plans for research, scholarship and creative endeavors within each identity area.
First introduced at the Research and Innovation Convening in May 2025, the research identity framework includes six identity areas that represent areas of strength and distinction at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. In fall 2025, 30 faculty members volunteered to draft initial identity area descriptions, which were then reviewed by 25 additional faculty colleagues. A feedback period generated more than 200 comments from the university community.
The research identity area ideation workshops will bring together faculty to generate new ideas for projects and partnerships, and identify steps to mobilize resources within each identity area. Workshops will be held via Zoom from 12:30-5 p.m. on the scheduled dates. Registration is required.
March 2 – Transportation, Infrastructure, Robotics, and Autonomous Technologies. Register here.
March 4 – Social, Behavioral, Educational, and Prevention Sciences. Register here.
March 27 – Creative Engagement and Cultural Heritage. Register here.
March 30 – Agriculture and Bioindustry. Register here.
April 15 – Material Sciences and Energy. Register here.
April 17 – Basic Mechanisms of Disease. Register here.
Save the date: Research and Innovation Convening
In addition to the ideation workshops, R&I is planning the second Research and Innovation Convening on May 4 at Nebraska Innovation Campus. Faculty are encouraged to save the date for the day-long event. Registration details will be shared soon.
For questions about the ideation workshops or the upcoming Convening, contact unlresearch@unl.edu.
