Posted October 23, 2025 by Office of Research and Innovation
The university community will have an opportunity to hear more about and learn ways to further engage with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s research identity framework introduced at the Research and Innovation Convening at a Nov. 6 virtual update meeting from 12-12:30 p.m. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link.
R&I leadership will share updates and address questions about the framework introduced at the May 7 Convening and outline the process for Nebraska faculty to provide feedback on the working version of the topic descriptions within the research identity framework.
The research identity areas unveiled during the R&I Convening reflect key categories of UNL’s research, scholarship and creative activities. The framework was developed in response to the University of Nebraska’s strategic plan, which calls for building a strong research identity around areas of excellence and distinction.
The framework for UNL’s research identity areas was developed through consultation with university leadership, including the deans of each college, and informed by a quantitative analysis of UNL’s sponsored research portfolio. The framework is organized around five signature research identity areas and supported by several cross-cutting areas of distinction. The five research identity areas are:
- Agriculture and Bioindustry
- Basic Mechanisms of Disease
- Material Sciences and Energy
- Social, Behavioral, Educational and Prevention Sciences
- Transportation, Infrastructure Robotics and Autonomous Technologies
Faculty feedback on the descriptions for each research identity area is essential to ensure they capture the full breadth of expertise at UNL, as well as the unique resources and partnerships that can help position UNL for external opportunities and boost the impact of research, scholarly and creative activity. A series of mini retreats in spring 2026 will provide additional opportunities for the university community to develop action plans within each identity area. More details are forthcoming.
