A collage of 4 images showing students and faculty performing research using electronic equipment, machines, cattle, precision agriculture vehicles, and lab equipment

Division of Research and Economic Development

The Division of Research and Economic Development supports competitive and strategic research, scholarship and creative activity in our mission as a land-grant university. The South Dakota State University's research profile covers a range of disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, remote sensing, life sciences, nursing, pharmacy, and the arts and humanities. By collaborating with industry, government, nonprofits and communities, researchers translate discovery into action that drives progress for the public good, extending the impact of research far beyond campus.

Haarberg research

In the Haarberg 3D Center, researchers are finding new treatments for cancer and other diseases through the repurposing of existing drugs.

bison

At the historic Cottonwood Field Station, researchers are investigating the benefits of precision livestock technology on ranching operations in western South Dakota.

Chamber winds

The Chamber Winds of South Dakota, a faculty-led ensemble founded by SDSU assistant professor of music Elizabeth Robinson, released its debut album “Moxie” in 2025.

Aerostar balloon in the SJAC

Industry collaborations provide SDSU faculty and students with unique research opportunities.

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SDSU Research
R1 Our Way

The university's extensive research profile is uniquely positioned to bolster South Dakota's economic growth and well-being. To grow its research enterprise and transform the South Dakota economy for generations to come, SDSU is pursuing R1 classification, as defined by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

To achieve R1 classification, the university must meet two clear benchmarks:

  • $50 million in annual research expenditures
  • 70 doctoral degrees awarded annually (calculated using a three-year running average)
Creativity is a core value at SDSU. It is part of who we are. The creativity of our faculty, staff and students drives SDSU’s research.
Daniel Scholl , vice president for research and economic development
Daniel Scholl
Student looking into a microscope in the lab.
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SDSU Research
Strategic Research Themes

To further its impact on South Dakota, the region and world, South Dakota State University has identified three strategic research themes where its strengths and expertise as a research university can make a real difference. The three themes are: Bioproducts Innovation; Rural Health and Well Being; and Agriculture Technology Innovation.

Graphic showing showing the areas of support given by the Division of Research and Economic Development.

Supporting You on Your Journey

  • Research Development and Administration
    • Proposal and Budget Development, Finding Funding, Team Building, PI Training and Proposal Submission
  • Research Compliance
    • Committees/Programs, Research Ethics, Training and more
  • Centers/Institutes and Core Facilities
    • Shared Research Interests, Instruments and Expertise
  • Economic Development
    • Technology Transfer Office: Patents/Licenses, Public-private partnerships
Letters and Guidance to Principal Investigators
The documents below can be accessed via our InsideState page.
Upcoming Events
The 2024 Celebration of Faculty Excellence at South Dakota State University featured feature faculty posters, visual arts and publication displays.
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About us
Our People

Meet the faculty and staff of the Division of Research and Economic Development.

Contact Us
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Division of Research and Economic Development
Physical Address
1015 Campanile Ave.
Brookings, SD 57007
Mailing Address
SAD 200, Box 2201
Brookings, SD 57007
Hours
Mon - Fri: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
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