Collaborative Research

Environmental Innovation Begins with Research

Research happens in many ways across the University, and organic connections and growth are essential to academic inquiry. The Initiative fosters connections between disciplines through research communities, convenes emerging collaborative research groups, and acts as a conduit to connect Penn researchers with external partners and funding.

Students gathered in a garden Credit Eric Sucar

Research Communities

A research community is a multi-year effort that fosters collaboration from different disciplines around a common theme of broad environmental significance. Led by a faculty member, each community should demonstrate inclusion, innovation, and impact.

Climate Action

Global Climate Impacts, Risks and Vulnerabilities

Incorporating scientific insights into decision-making is crucial for addressing the impacts of climate change.

Societal Resilience

Stewardship of Nature

Catalyzing Nature-Based Solutions to Address Urban Water Challenges in Philadelphia Communities

Access to clean water and the protection of freshwater ecosystems in cities like Philadelphia, within the Northeast Mega Region, face threats from climate change.

Societal Resilience

How Private Actors Build Societal Resilience to Environmental Crises

Individuals facing socioeconomic disadvantages and structural inequalities are disproportionately affected by environmental crises, including those stemming from climate change.

Election Ballot Photo AdobeStock 230157974

Climate Action

Societal Resilience

Public Deliberation on Climate Transitions and Well-Being

Society is currently engaged in major transitions prompted by the climate emergency and other environmental crises. These green transitions pose a formidable suite of challenges.

Climate Action

Stewardship of Nature

One Health@Penn

A growing recognition of the intimate connection between humans, animals, and the environment has underscored that an interdisciplinary, multisectoral strategy is crucial to address complex health challenges.

Children at a Project Based Learning Class of Global Climate Justice

Climate Action

Project-Based Learning for Global Climate Justice

K-12 schools and higher education institutions can play a pivotal role in this response by creating opportunities for students to have a meaningful impact on their communities now while also inspiring their commitment to this work in the future

Societal Resilience

Stewardship of Nature

Penn Regenerative Ag Alliance

Regenerative Agricultural describes holistic farming and grazing practices aimed at improving soil health via rebuilding soil organic matter and restoring degraded soil biodiversity.

Learn More About Research Communities