About

At Purdue Polytechnic, research focuses on People, Process, Product, Innovation, and Impact. Our faculty and students engage in applied, interdisciplinary research that typically aligns with Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 2–7, where foundational ideas are translated into practical, testable solutions. We focus on challenges that matter  and advance innovation in ways that directly support industry, community well-being, and national priorities.

In FY 2025, Our research spans a broad spectrum of applied technologies and closely aligns with 鶹Ʒ’s strategic research initiatives.

  • Artificial Intelligence & Robotics ($5.55M) With deep alignment to Purdue Computes and IPAI, the college leads innovation in machine learning, autonomous systems, and robotics. These projects often bridge physical and virtual spaces—integrating AI with infrastructure, logistics, and smart environments.
  • Cybersecurity ($4.86M) 
    As cyber threats grow, Purdue Polytechnic's investments in secure AI, digital forensics, and infrastructure protection are critical. This area is emerging rapidly, reinforcing Purdue’s national reputation in cybersecurity innovation and resilience.
  • Digital Forestry & Environment ($739K) 
    Leveraging strengths in aviation and remote sensing, the college contributes to Purdue’s Digital Forestry initiative with research in wildfire risk assessment, LiDAR, and environmental analytics—enhancing sustainability and ecosystem health.
  • STEM Education & Workforce Development ($474K) 
    The college is committed to shaping tomorrow’s technology workforce through NSF REUs, experiential learning, and curriculum innovation. These projects support national efforts to expand access and diversity in advanced tech fields.
  • Other Applied Research ($4.89M)
    This diverse category showcases our core strength in solving real-world problems through interdisciplinary research. Projects span aviation systems, analytics, infrastructure, and human-centered design, contributing to applied science and workforce development.

Together, these investments reflect the college's distinctive role in bridging theory and application, and in producing innovations that scale—from proof-of-concept to pilot-ready solutions. Our mission-driven research strengthens Purdue’s impact on global challenges through actionable, scalable outcomes.

Office of Research Directory

Dr. Baijian "Justin" Yang

Associate Dean for Research

emily meyer

Administrative Assistant

Walter Daniel Leon-Salas

Faculty Lead of Research Impact Areas

Jim Tanoos

Undergraduate Research Director