Research & Innovation Office

Helping create answers to the world’s toughest problems

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) supports the Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) Roadmap to 2050 strategic plan by setting the strategy, vision and direction of collegewide, transdisciplinary research and innovation activities that transcend conventional boundaries. We establish, lead and support large-scale institutes and centers that function within CALS, coordinate the activities of these units and connect them to the work of the broader university. 

RIO works with faculty to prioritize competitive grant development among pre-tenured faculty, pursue large extramural grants with faculty teams and develop corporate partnerships. RIO administers the annual CALS Moonshot Seed Grant Program to provide funding for innovative research activities across the college.

We also engage in partnership capacity-building both in New York state and around the world. Our team work closely with the CALS Dean’s Office and the Office of Alumni Affairs and Development to participate in fundraising activities that support the college’s work in research and innovation.