Advancing research, innovation, entrepreneurship and strategic partnerships at ASU
Knowledge Enterprise
We are changing the way the world solves problems.
Driving discovery, innovation and solutions
Knowledge Enterprise is the engine that drives discovery and innovation at Arizona State University, one of the fastest growing research institutions in the U.S. We empower researchers, forge partnerships, invest in our communities and pioneer interdisciplinary thinking. Our goal is not simply to find solutions, but to fundamentally reshape how the world solves problems.
News
Research matters
Research unlocks discoveries and creates opportunity. It develops new technologies and new ways of doing — discoveries that change the world and make America the world’s leading economic power.
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.
2025: Delivering innovation
ASU Knowledge Enterprise drives research that matters to you — whether that’s diagnosing diseases early, turning Arizona into the nation’s chip-churning powerhouse, making smart use of water in the desert or preparing a workforce with skills to shape the future.
$1.003 billion
ASU has expanded its research enterprise more than sixfold in the past 20 years, surpassing $1 billion in research expenditures in FY 2024.
268+ companies
More than 268 companies have launched based on ASU innovations, attracting $1.5 billion in external funding.
#1 in innovation
For the eleventh year in a row, U.S. News & World Report named ASU the most innovative school in the U.S. in its 2026 college rankings, ahead of MIT and Stanford.
Lab Coat Optional podcast
On Lab Coat Optional, host Pete Zrioka interviews ASU researchers at the forefront of their fields — minus the jargon. Leave your lab coat at the door and tune in to learn about the latest research from ASU.
Lab Coat Optional
Lab Coat Optional is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University, released every other Wednesday.
We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu.
Tackling plastic pollution from coast to coast with Charlie Rolsky
Plastic is everywhere. The same material that makes modern life easier has also become a persistent environmental pollutant.
Charlie Rolsky — ASU alumnus and executive director of the Shaw Institute in Blue Hill, Maine — explores how microplastics move through our environment and into our bodies, what we do and don’t know about their impacts, and why “biodegradable” often doesn’t mean what we think. He also reflects on his journey from ASU to Maine — and how scientists balance urgency with responsible communication.
Learn more about
- The Shaw Institute (and their free touch tank!)
- Dirigo Sea Farm
Further listening
- Listen to Science Vs!
Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu.
Please give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! It helps other listeners find us.
Got an idea for us? Get in touch at [email protected].
Episode credits
Executive produced by Kate Howells
Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka
Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka
Shot by Alexander Chapin
Edited by Alexander Chapin and Quinton Kendall
Original music from Patrick Cheung
Motion graphics by Andy Ramos
Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz
Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson
Disclosure:
Lab Coat Optional is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This show does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the information provided is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.
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Lab Coat Optional
Lab Coat Optional is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University, released every other Wednesday.
We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu.
Staying human in the age of AI with Andrew Maynard
As AI and emerging technologies reshape daily life, Andrew Maynard — scientist, author and professor in the Rob Walton College of Global Futures — discusses how we navigate disruptive innovation responsibly — and how we can hold onto our humanity in a rapidly changing world.
Further reading:
Listen to Andrew’s show, Modem Futura wherever you get your podcasts.
Learn more about Andrew’s Future of Being Human Initiative, and the Rob Walton College of Global Futures, part of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at ASU.
Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu.
Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice!
Get in touch with us at [email protected].
Episode credits
Executive produced by Kate Howells
Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka
Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka
Shot and edited by Alexander Chapin
Original music from Patrick Cheung
Motion graphics by Andy Ramos
Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz
Editorial support from Diane Boudreau
Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson
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Lab Coat Optional
Lab Coat Optional is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University, released every other Wednesday.
We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu.
The future of medical research with NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya [BONUS]
Director of the National Institutes of Health Dr. Jay Bhattacharya joins the show to discuss his priorities for the agency, building trust with Tribal communities, his advice to young researchers — and some of his favorite board games.
Jay’s board game recs:
- Azul
- Castles of Burgundy
- Anything by Vital Lacerda!
Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram, LinkedIn and Bluesky or visit us at research.asu.edu.
Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice!
Get in touch with us at [email protected].
Episode credits
Executive produced by Kate Howells
Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka
Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka
Shot and edited by Alexander Chapin
Original music from Patrick Cheung
Motion graphics by Andy Ramos
Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz
Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson
![The future of medical research with NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya [BONUS]](https://media.rss.com/lab-coat-optional/ep_cover_20260304_090306_8e4d352670434f15ee7e4016d7dbdd1b.png)
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Explore our resources
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.
Partner with us
We can accomplish more together. Find out how you can create customized partnerships with ASU that help your organization thrive.
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.
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.