The University of Arizona has announced a pivotal evolution in its research enterprise: the Office of Research, Innovation and Impact is now the Office of Research and Partnerships (ORP). This new name reflects a sharpened focus on how research delivers public value through intentional collaboration.

The shift underscores the university’s role not only as a generator of knowledge but also as a convener of people, perspectives and resources committed to addressing urgent, global challenges. Partnerships amplify the value of research by moving it from creation to mobilization, transforming discoveries made in labs and classrooms into economic opportunity, societal benefit and global progress.

Industry partners help move innovations from lab to market. Government partnerships align research with public priorities and needs. Nonprofit and community collaborators ensure solutions are co-designed and accessible. And international partnerships expand global reach and relevance, connecting research to complex problems and diverse contexts. Together, these relationships generate impact that is culturally relevant, equitable and enduring. Without them, much of the societal benefit of research would remain unrealized.

“Partnership is how we move from discovery to real-world innovation that improves the lives of people everywhere,” said Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, senior vice president for research and partnerships. “It’s how we connect the expertise of our faculty, staff and students with the needs of communities, industries and the nation.”

Beyond research, these collaborations fuel student success and workforce development through internships, co-ops and applied experiences, building talent pipelines for high-growth sectors like biotech, clean energy, and data science.

As a leading research institution, the University of Arizona serves as an anchor in the regional and statewide innovation ecosystem, where collaboration acts as the connective tissue that fosters shared problem-solving and economic vitality. As ORP’s vision continues to evolve, one principle remains clear: lasting impact depends on strong partnerships. Only by working together with policymakers, business leaders, community advocates, and subject matter experts can we ensure that university research continues to drive progress for the public good.