Research Institutes at DU
Research for the Public Good
In addition to being passionate educators, DU’s faculty members conduct research and advance knowledge that solves challenges faced by communities in Colorado and far beyond. From the global trends shaping humanity’s future to family well-being and maternal health to improving learning outcomes in children and improving our legal system—faculty across DU are serving as agents of positive change.
What’s more, our institutes offer hands-on learning opportunities for DU's graduate and undergraduate students. Working alongside faculty mentors, students gain applicable skills that complement their classroom learning and set them on a course for meaningful lives and careers.
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Butler Institute for Families
The Butler Institute for Families at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work collaboratively partners with organizations that serve children, youth, families, individuals and communities. Through research, evaluation, organizational improvement efforts, trainings, coaching and dissemination of information, we work to improve systems and programs in early childhood, behavioral health, child welfare, and tribal initiatives. The Butler Institutie helps organizations build sustainable programs that center justice, equity, diversity and inclusion to support families and develop thriving communities.
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Frederick S. Pardee Institute for International Futures
The Frederick S. Pardee Institute for International Futures (Pardee Institute) is dedicated to advancing the understanding of global trends and their implications for humanity's future. Through rigorous research and analysis, the Pardee Institute provides vital insights that inform policymakers, businesses and communities globally by empowering them to make informed decisions for sustainable development in an interconnected world.
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IAALS, the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System
IAALS is a national, independent research organization that innovates and advances solutions that make our civil justice system more just. Through purposeful collaboration, listening, and research, IAALS jumpstarts the groundbreaking and achievable solutions that will clear a path to justice for everyone.
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Institute for Human-Animal Connection
From thoughtful petkeeping to global biodiversity, the Institute for Human-Animal Connection conducts groundbreaking research to understand the profound impact of our interactions with animals and the environment. IHAC explores the deep connection between the health of humans, our communities, animals and the environment, and how we can protect that health for our collective futures.
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Institute for Relationship Science
The Institute for Relationship Science conducts high-quality, basic-science research on the relationships children and adolescents have with their community—their family, friends, and romantic partners. They seek to develop findings that inform public messaging, prevention programs and interventions with the goal to improve the lives of young people.
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Marsico Institute for Early Learning
The Marisco Institute advances interdisciplinary research to address pressing social and environmental challenges on local and global scales. Through collaborative efforts, the Marisco Institute develops innovative solutions and inform policies and practices aimed at promoting social justice and environmental stewardship, ultimately working towards a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
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Stress, Early Experience and Development Institute - SEED
SEED conducts research to better understand and address the impacts of maternal stress and early childhood experiences and development to promote intergenerational health, well-being and resilience. By fostering rigorous interdisciplinary, policy-relevant research with collaborative community partners SEED seeks to improve the lives of children and their loved ones.