Skip to the main content

Research and Innovation

We innovate with purpose. Discovery doesn’t happen by standing still. As a billion-dollar research enterprise in one of the nation’s most dynamic innovation hubs, UC San Diego is built for breakthroughs. Here, ideas become real-world solutions— exploring the human microbiome, pioneering nanotechnology, advancing climate science and driving social mobility. Because the future won’t wait, and neither will we.

Behind Every Breakthrough: Protect the Future of Discovery

The future is shaped by those who go beyond the known. At UC San Diego, we don’t just adapt—we create change. Bold ideas need a foundation. Research requires resources, collaboration, and investment to turn possibility into reality. With it, we change the world.

Learn More About Our Breakthroughs

alert ca map

Driving positive change

We are not afraid to take a chance on an unlikely idea. Our penchant for experimentation has led us to reimagine the world.

  • No. 8

    University Powering Global Innovation

    Featured in: Clarivate 2025
  • No. 9

    for Highly Cited Researchers

    Featured in: Clarivate 2024
  • Top 10

    Research Universities

    Featured in: National Science Foundation

The Future of AI is Now

We’re harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, with the goal of getting closer to answering some of the greatest challenges of our time. Whether using AI to develop complex cures or creating AI-powered predictive models to help fight wildfires, UC San Diego is advancing how the world uses AI.

Learn More About AI

robots

Research and Innovation at UC San Diego

Office of Research and Innovation

Big questions demand bold collaboration. We’re developing transformative discoveries to shape the future.

Learn More About ORI

Office of Innovation and Commercialization

We foster a culture of creativity across disciplines, turning discoveries into solutions that shape the world.

Learn More About OIC

Health Sciences

Through pioneering research, inspired teaching, and groundbreaking medicine, we’re advancing health for all.

Learn More About Health Sciences

Research and Innovation News

The Future of Clean Energy

UC San Diego researchers are pushing the boundaries of nuclear fusion—pioneering solutions to overcome engineering challenges and unlock its potential as a limitless, sustainable power source. Read the story »

laser-farhat beg

Confronting Climate Crises

Increased temperatures, weather extremes and hot and dry conditions have intensified the threat of wildfires in California and around the world. Wildfire is an extremely complex problem and research and mitigation have never been more important.

Explore More Climate Solutions

Chase Your Curiosity

In our labs, maker spaces, and in the field, you’ll push boundaries, fuel discovery, and bring your bold ideas to life.

Learn About Student Opportunities

Redefining Human Health

From the depths of the oceans to the microgravity of space, we’re exploring the unknown to revolutionize medicine. Our researchers take discoveries from bench to bedside, turning them into breakthrough treatments, technologies, and tools to create a healthier tomorrow.

Learn More About Health Innovation

robotic-hand

Discover UC San Diego Researchers

Explore the expertise, research interests and professional accomplishments of UC San Diego faculty and researchers. Our searchable directory provides detailed profiles that highlight each researcher’s recent projects, publication and contributions to their fields. Dive in to find collaborators, learn about ongoing studies and see how UC San Diego is pushing the boundaries of knowledge.

Search Researchers