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Research

Discover how our researchers are addressing the challenges that exist at the intersection of information, technology and society.

Research in IST focuses on systems-level thinking, higher conceptualization of global problems, and interdisciplinary connectivity. We explore innovative solutions for dealing with the complex and emerging problems that are changing the way we think, live, and engage with the world. Our faculty, students, and scholars represent the best Penn State has to offer.

$79.7M

External research funding credited to IST faculty

497

External research grants credited to IST faculty

117

Funding agencies supporting IST research

Since 2015

$11.5M

Research expenditures (FY24)

$1M+

Seed grants and matching funds awarded by IST

47

Industry partnerships

112

Active research grants

21

Current and former IST faculty received NSF CAREER Awards

$6M+

NSF CAREER Award funding

Research or Regress

At Penn State, researchers are solving real problems that impact the health, safety, and quality of life of people across the Commonwealth, the nation, and around the world.

For decades, federal support for research has fueled innovation that makes our country safer, our industries more competitive, and our economy stronger. Recent federal funding cuts threaten this progress.

Learn more about the implications of federal funding cuts to your future.

See What’s at Stake

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Upcoming Events

Oct

27

IST Graduate Program Information Session

Date & Time: October 27, 2026, 4:30 pm–5:30 pm

Location: E215 | Westgate Building

Dec

01

CSRAI Research-a-thon: Submission deadline

Date & Time: December 1, 2026, 12:00 am–11:30 pm

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Oct

08

IST Research Talks: Dongwon Lee

Date & Time: October 8, 2026, 12:05 pm–1:15 pm

Location: Westgate Building | E339

Photo of Dongwon Lee

Oct

02

AI in Research Symposium

Date & Time: October 2, 2026, 9:30 am–1:00 pm

Location: Graduate by Hilton State College (125 S Atherton St, State College, PA 16801)