Research and innovation objectives

Learn how we will achieve our 3 objectives for delivering for Research and innovation: From discovery to impact.

Our objective is to pursue excellence in discovery-led research, recognising that it is the foundation of our innovation and impact.

UQ’s commitment to discovery-driven research excellence underpins our innovation, partnerships and impact. Our strength lies in deep disciplinary expertise, supported by a culture that encourages collaboration, creativity and the pursuit of knowledge for the public good.

We recognise that our research and innovation achievements rely on the exceptional contributions of UQ researchers, professionals and higher degree by research students. We will continue to attract, retain and develop outstanding and diverse talent who shape global ideas and push the boundaries of discovery, ensuring that excellence remains a defining feature of UQ research.

To extend the reach and relevance of our expertise, we will use networks and collaborations that connect our research community across disciplines. Through UQ Research Networks and other collaborative platforms, we will accelerate discovery at interdisciplinary intersections – where complex challenges and transformative opportunities often emerge.

Research infrastructure is key to our excellence. We will continue to invest in advanced facilities, digital tools and AI-enabled technologies that enable researchers to work more efficiently, collaborate more broadly and innovate more boldly. Specialist infrastructure also drives significant research partnerships, making UQ distinctive. In line with The Queensland Commitment, we will ensure UQ’s infrastructure benefits the wider Queensland community and supports their needs.

Through these initiatives, UQ aims to strengthen its position as one of the world’s leading research-intensive universities. We will not only create new knowledge but also translate it in ways that enrich our communities and deliver tangible societal benefit.

Our objective is to continue translating our research through policy, commercialisation, and societal uptake.

As a globally connected research-intensive university, UQ has advanced knowledge and delivered innovative solutions that address globally significant challenges. Through UniQuest, our technology transfer company, UQ is a leader in research commercialisation.

Our entrepreneurial capacity is increasingly important as Queensland and Australia diversify their industries. We are committed to helping solve community challenges and contributing to Queensland’s economic development. By translating research into impact, UQ directly contributes to safeguarding and promoting Australia’s national interests and sovereignty.

Over the next 4 years, we will broaden our partnerships with industry, government, not-for-profit organisations, philanthropic foundations and individuals, and research collaborators to become the partner of choice. This relies on clear pathways and coordinated support systems, in addition to innovation excellence.

We will strengthen the translation pipeline by connecting researchers with industry, government, and community partners who transform ideas into practical solutions, market-ready innovations, and evidence-based policies. We will build a more integrated and responsive ecosystem to support researchers from discovery to deployment by developing skills in translation and entrepreneurship; deepening expertise in intellectual property, regulation, and investment; and cultivating a culture that recognises and rewards impact in all its forms.

While our research is already highly trusted, we can enhance our agility and proactivity to seize emerging opportunities.

Our objective is to create an ambitious, inclusive and supportive research community with an open and ethical culture that champions diversity and empowers our researchers.

A vibrant, ethical, supportive and inclusive research culture underpins integrity, innovation and excellence. Without such a culture, even highly talented researchers might not realise their full potential and research outcomes may fall short of their broader societal value.

UQ’s research success has been built on the creativity, expertise and dedication of its staff. We will continue to build an environment in which researchers at all career stages feel valued and supported. To strengthen support for early- and mid-career researchers, we will emphasise research excellence, expand mentoring and provide opportunities to develop leadership, teaching and industry engagement capabilities. Structured programs will connect researchers across disciplines and career stages, guiding their progression within and beyond academia.

We will deliver a distinctive HDR experience that supports individual aspirations, removes barriers to success for underrepresented groups and prepares graduates for a wide range of careers. We will do this by embedding professional, entrepreneurial and transferable skills development within HDR programs and expanding industry and community placements, exchanges and secondments to build experience and collaboration.

Responsible research practices remain central to our mission. We will ensure that ethical and transparent approaches are embedded in all aspects of research design and implementation, including in the use of emerging technologies. By strengthening co-design and interdisciplinary collaboration, we will cultivate a culture of openness and accountability that reflects our commitment to research integrity, inclusion and social responsibility.