Partners

PARTNERS

Design Innovation (DI)

We’re proud to be a Design Innovation (DI) Hub Node and part of the wider DI ecosystem across KSU - a university-wide initiative that spans our eight campuses. Regardless of their main area of study, our students can explore innovative ideas, create and collaborate across different sectors. Bright minds and dynamic problem solvers can be found here. 

The Design Innovation (DI) Hub, a 68,000-square-foot building near the center of the Kent Campus, is at the heart of this initiative. This newly renovated space brings together fresh ways of thinking from across KSU’s wide range of subjects.

Using the DI Ecosystem, we’re able to raise awareness of new opportunities and help students access the broad range of maker, design, technology and resource laboratories. We believe it’s a key part of improving cross-subject innovation.

Discover DI


Environmental Science and Design Research Initiative (ESDRI)

One of the ESDRI’s main aims is to consider the close relationship between humans and the natural world as we develop products, solutions and insights that address local, regional, and global issues. The initiative also helps faculty to advance their research, collaborate across disciplines, and secure extra-curricular funding. 

The ESDRI collaborates with a broad range of scientists, designers and practitioners, who work across dozens of academic disciplines. Colleges represented within the ESDRI include the College of Architecture & Environmental Design, the College of the Arts, the College of Arts & Sciences, and the College of Education, Health & Human Services.

Collaborate with ESDRI


Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute (AMLCI)

The AMLCI works with a large, cross-discipline team. It’s made up of liquid crystal researchers, and experts in nanoscience and technology, biomaterials, organic semiconductors, and organic electro-optics. The AMLCI aims to engage students and academics outside of the traditional STEM disciplines and helps them understand how to use the advanced materials developed here at Kent State University. 

Some of the AMLCI’s most successful examples of this reach include:

  • Faculty from the School of Fashion and the College of Podiatric Medicine, who are pushing the boundaries of wearable technology
  • Faculty of the College of Architecture who are developing buildings with smart windows and skins
  • Faculty from the College Aeronautics and Engineering who are developing the next generation of fuel cells 

The AMLCI builds connections beyond KSU with institutions, individual researchers with complimentary skills, and industries that apply our discoveries.

Connect with AMLCI


Advanced Telerobotics Research Laboratory (ATR)

The ATR laboratory offers students the hands-on experiences they need to solve real-world challenges. It also plays a key role in developing student-led research opportunities and helping students build their entrepreneurial skills. The ATR is training a new generation of IT professionals who reflect the diversity of North East Ohio.

Learn more about ATR