Our Research

UA
Researchers discussing something together.

Research is at the core of our every endeavour. Since 1908, the University of Alberta has pushed what's possible, evolving into the world-renowned institution we are today. By sharing knowledge, enabling collaborative creation and driving discovery — we work to make the world a better place.

Forward with Purpose: A Strategic Plan for Research and Innovation

2023-2028

This first institutional strategic plan for research and innovation presents a bold new step in defining areas for maximum impact to address the grand challenges of our time.

Read the full plan

Life-changing research

Purpose is power. Solving our world’s most complex challenges demands new ways of thinking and doing.

U of A leads the Prairie research hub

Cultivating cross-disciplinary strength will fast-track new discoveries and advance pandemic preparedness.

An image from a virtual reality art show

Personal data shaping identity

Art taps virtual reality for an unexpected and immersive experience — provoking new perspectives.

Dr. Ashwin Iyer aligning equipment

A lifeline in the harshest environments

Researchers are developing a new communications system to help protect troops in combat.

Dr. Lorne Tyrrell (L) and Nobel Prize recipient Dr. Michael Houghton (R)

Fewer shortages, new discoveries

The Canadian Critical Drug Initiative will strengthen our supply chain for critical medicines and advance new breakthroughs.

An image of a clean room used for advanced research

We are tackling the challenges of today...

Energy + Environment

Can you set out to energize the world without compromising the earth? At the University of Alberta, we believe we can, and... we are.

A close-up of a chess board used in AI research

Artificial Intelligence

We are one of the world's leading AI research institutions. And to think it all started with a game of chess.

A researcher in a clean suit looks into a microscope

Health + Well-being

We are at the forefront of an emerging approach to health and wellness that expands on efforts to understand, diagnose and treat disease through advances in technology.

Cattle grazing in a field

Agriculture + Food

From the land to the lab, we are working on incredible advancements to find ways to produce more food, use less energy, and strike a better balance between our economy and our environment.

CENTRES + INSTITUTES

We provide researchers with the infrastructure to achieve far-reaching impacts. Home to some of the world's best facilities and resources, Centres and Institutes foster collaboration among strategic networks and partners. From discovery to innovation, to technology development and evidence-based policy recommendations — we facilitate research across the entire spectrum.

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The Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology
An agricultural researcher examines data from an experiment involving cattle.