We're changing the world

Iowa State University researchers are tackling the grand challenges of the 21st century through groundbreaking research in biobased chemicals and other biorenewable products, precision agriculture, immunotherapeutics and vaccines, advanced manufacturing and materials, and data-driven science.

Not only do our researchers have a longstanding tradition of innovation and discovery, they work across disciplines to find solutions and improve lives in Iowa, the nation, and the world.

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Timeline
1896

An Ag Giant Sprouts at Iowa State

George Washington Carver is recognized as one of the most iconic scientists of all time – and he began his journey at Iowa State. His research resulted in the creation of hundreds of uses for peanuts and sweet potatoes, from plastics to laundry soap to diesel fuel.

1937

The ABC's of Computing Born Here

Computers today continue to be built on many of the basic tenets that originated with the world’s first electronic computer, created at Iowa State. The Atanasoff-Berry Computer (ABC) was developed by physics professor John Vincent Atanasoff, who wanted to increase the speed and accuracy of scientific calculations.

2011

Researcher Awarded Nobel Prize

Iowa State and Ames Laboratory materials scientist Dan Shechtman receives the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his discovery of quasicrystals. Today they’re both created in labs and found in natural materials, and their hardness and non-stick qualities may find use in strong steels and surface coatings.

2019

Innovation on the Horizon

Iowa State is changing Iowa, the nation, and the world through its research – from improving the health of people, animals, and the environment to advancing agriculture production and techniques with data to designing next-generation materials and manufacturing technologies. What will we discover next?

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  • Iowa’s farmers – and American eaters – need a national discussion on transforming US agriculture
  • Young adults not seeking treatment for substance use disorders
  • Search begins for next vice president for research

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