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Bridging Industry and Academia

The R&D Partnership Team serves as the gateway for business and industry to access the University of Kentucky's world-class research capabilities and talent. We create meaningful partnerships that drive innovation, economic growth and practical solutions to today's challenges. 

Our Mission

We provide dedicated resources for developing and supporting corporate partnerships in research and innovation, creating mutual value for both industry and the university community.

Why Partner With Us

Why Partner With Us

  • Single point of contact for navigating the university's research capabilities 
  • Streamlined processes for establishing partnerships 
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment 
  • Opportunities to engage with student talent and future workforce 
  • Potential for leveraging university resources for competitive funding 

 For Faculty and Staff For Corporate Partners

What We Do

Facilitate Federal Partnership Programs

Facilitate Federal Partnership Programs

We identify and pursue federal research and innovation economic development opportunities that prioritize industry-academic collaboration.

Enable Industry-Sponsored Research

Enable Industry-Sponsored Research

We streamline access to UK's research expertise through sponsored research agreements, clinical trials, testing, and analytical services.

Build Research Consortiums

Build Research Consortiums

We create and support collaborative ecosystems where multiple industry partners and academic researchers unite to tackle significant challenges.

Connect through Events

Connect Through Events

We host targeted networking and showcase events where industry leaders and faculty researchers can explore potential collaborations.

Meet the Team

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Landon Borders
Executive Director, Innovation Connect
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Chelsea Ex-Lubeskie
Manager, Innovation Connect
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Alexa Narel
Manager, Innovation Connect
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Kim Sayre
Manager, Innovation Connect