University of Minnesota, Research & Innovation Office (RIO)

Jessica Hellmann, Director of Institute on the Environment University of Minnesota, is recognized in Twin Cities Business for her work addressing climate change, sustainability, and biodiversity, advancing innovative solutions for a resilient future. Read more about her achievements: https://bit.ly/4gClldw

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is launching a pioneering grant program to establish a green fertilizer industry within the state, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide farmers with locally produced alternatives to traditional nitrogen fertilizers. This initiative builds on the University of Minnesota Morris's research into wind-powered ammonia production, with the goal of decentralizing fertilizer manufacturing and enhancing supply chain resilience for Minnesota farmers. https://bit.ly/4gcvrlD

University of Minnesota researchers have identified a critical ecological tipping point involving wood-rotting fungi in northern forests. These fungi influence carbon storage and emissions, with implications for future climate strategies. The study highlights the delicate balance in forest ecosystems that governs carbon cycles and environmental stability. Read more: https://bit.ly/3OL1tsH

VP for Research and Innovation Shashank Priya presented the 2024 Annual Report on the State of the University Research Enterprise to the Board of Regents last week. He also presented on Developing New Areas of Research Funding, which highlighted emerging research areas and new programs. Read more here: https://bit.ly/3Dk13qZ

RIO has awarded $87,699 to nine projects as part of the NC A&T and UMN Research Partnership, a seed grant program aimed at developing a research partnership between the University of Minnesota and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T), a leading research institution among America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Read more: https://bit.ly/41C5eIF

A team led by Larry Wackett recently identified a biological system that can degrade persistent PFAS compounds, also known as “forever” chemicals, which pose known health risks to humans and the environment. Their research assuages fears that forever chemicals will exist in perpetuity. https://bit.ly/3D2RoVs

University of Minnesota scientists are part of a groundbreaking proposal to create a lunar biorepository to preserve Earth’s ecosystems. By advancing cryopreservation techniques, they aim to store cells, tissues, and organisms on the moon as a safeguard against catastrophic events, with research already showing success in reviving frozen zebrafish embryos. Read more at https://bit.ly/3VbeHmu

The University of Minnesota is researching innovative ways tires could potentially be used as a low-cost building material that retains phosphate in stormwater treatment systems. This approach reduces costs, repurposes waste, and supports environmental protection efforts. Read more: https://bit.ly/3VwLOky

The University of Minnesota's Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center is re-evaluating reed canarygrass, now identified as native, to develop updated strategies that balance conservation and biodiversity. Their research highlights the complexities of adapting ecological management to evolving scientific insights. Supported by Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources /ENTRF. https://bit.ly/4fbGwSK

UMN reached a historic milestone, surpassing $1 billion in research expenditures and ranking among the top institutions for innovation, patent activity, and startup success. Our research continues to address societal challenges and drive economic growth. You can watch VP Shashank Priya brief the Board of Regents on Thursday, December 12. https://bit.ly/3BvoOvu