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Knowledge Enterprise

Research and innovation that matters to our communities.

Research with purpose. Research with results.


Driving discovery, innovation and solutions of public value

Knowledge Enterprise delivers direct benefits for the people of Arizona and all Americans through the power of discovery and innovation. ASU is one of the fastest growing research institutions in the U.S. and a leader in health care, advanced technology, national security, sustainability, space exploration and other critical areas. From detecting diseases faster to advancing next-generation microchips, our research makes a positive impact on individuals and our economy.

Stories of research that matters

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ASU’s tangible impact

Research creates technologies, medicines and other answers to the biggest challenges we face. That research touches your life in numerous ways every day, from the roads you drive on to the phone in your pocket.

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ResearchDiscoveryInnovationImpact
ResearchDiscoveryInnovationImpact

Our impact

Arizona State University is a global leader in interdisciplinary research, discovery and development. Our rapid growth and top rankings demonstrate our success at delivering new knowledge and solutions that support thriving people, a thriving planet and thriving societies.

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2024 year in review

ASU researchers are harnessing DNA for data storage, helping rural residents manage dwindling groundwater supplies, accelerating local startups in the growing space industry, and establishing Arizona as a national hub for microelectronics research.

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$904 million


ASU has expanded its research enterprise more than sixfold in the past 20 years, reaching $904 million in research expenditures in FY 2023.

250+ companies


More than 250 companies have launched based on ASU innovations, attracting $1.4 billion in external funding.

#1 in innovation


For the tenth year in a row, U.S. News & World Report named ASU the most innovative school in the U.S. in its 2025 college rankings, ahead of MIT and Stanford.

Spotlight: Brain health

Silhouettes of a man's and a woman's heads with glowing blue and pink brains, respectively

Cerebellum plays role in learning but differs with sex

Research has shown there can be sex differences between how male and female brains are wired. An ASU study found that the cerebellum, which was thought to mainly control motor skills, plays a role in learning during adolescence — but that role differs in males and females. Studying sex differences in brain development can help us better understand and treat neurodevelopmental disorders, which can have different symptoms in males and females.

Illustration of the brain's immune cells interacting with harmful proteins linked to Alzheimer's

Surprising link between gut infection and Alzheimer’s

ASU researchers found a link between a chronic viral infection in the gut and the development of Alzheimer’s disease. In some people, a common virus may remain active in the gut and travel to the brain via the vagus nerve. Once there, the virus can contribute to changes tied to Alzheimer’s disease. If the hypotheses are confirmed, scientists may be able to test whether existing antiviral drugs can treat or prevent this form of Alzheimer’s.

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Common weed killer has lasting effects on brain health

ASU research shows contact with a common weed killer can cause lasting damage to the brain. Exposure to the active ingredient glyphosate can inflame the brain and increase risk of neurodegenerative disease. Glyphosate is the most common chemical herbicide used in the global market and often used in agriculture. The EPA considers certain levels of glyphosate safe, but recent studies like this one raise questions about current safety thresholds.

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Accelerate your research

Whether you need help finding funding opportunities, crafting a proposal or commercializing your discoveries — ASU supports researchers through the entire research cycle.

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Partner with us

We can accomplish more together. Find out how you can create customized partnerships with ASU that help your organization thrive.

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Gain career experience

Students are vital to our ecosystem of research, entrepreneurship and innovation. Find opportunities to apply your coursework to hands-on projects and real-world challenges.

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Support discovery

Philanthropy plays an important role in creating knowledge, pioneering discovery and catalyzing innovation. Learn how your gift can advance our work.

Be a part of ASU Knowledge Enterprise

Advance your career while making a difference. Knowledge Enterprise employees support research and innovation that benefits our communities and our world. And they enjoy generous and broad benefits including health and life insurance, retirement, tuition reduction and much more.