At the University of Dayton Research Institute, we combine (un)common sense with creativity to deliver innovative, practical science and engineering solutions. On budget. On time.

UDRI is a national leader in scientific and engineering research, serving government, industry and nonprofit customers. Our professional engineers and scientists conduct research and provide support in a wide variety of technical areas, ensuring customer success by delivering affordable and innovative solutions, leading edge technologies and outstanding service. Our accomplishments are marked by integrity, respect for others, and commitment to the individual growth of our employees. Our major research areas include materials, energy and the environment, aeropropulsion, structures, mechanical systems, sensors and human factors.

UDRI also contributes to the fulfillment of the University’s commitments to education, research and public service through the involvement of students, faculty and external partners. Established as the research arm of the University of Dayton in 1956, sponsored research in 2022 alone topped $221 million, and cumulative sponsored research broke the $3 billion mark in the same fiscal year. UDRI is ranked first in the nation among all colleges and universities for sponsored materials research, according to the National Science Foundation. In Ohio, UDRI is number one among colleges and universities receiving contracts and grants from the Department of Defense and in the amount of engineering research it performs.