Research
Innovation Starts at DSU
At Dakota State University, we nurture an environment that celebrates and rewards innovation. Both students and faculty have the means and the opportunities to be agents of innovation in South Dakota and beyond. DSU researchers have earned national awards and recognition for exploring new directions and germinating groundbreaking ideas.
Undergraduate research
Dakota State University offers undergraduates in every discipline the chance to engage in advanced research. Work alongside faculty and peers, explore meaningful questions, and gain hands-on experience in modern labs using cutting-edge technology. Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while beginning a research journey that can transform your academic career.
Graduate research
Research is at the core of Dakota State University’s graduate programs, giving students a deeper understanding of their fields. Work closely with faculty on projects ranging from big data for disease prediction to social media and mobile technologies that support healthier communities. Expand your expertise, contribute to meaningful discoveries, and advance your career through impactful research.
Get involved with research at DSU
Research events
DSU hosts a variety of research events throughout the year that showcase innovative, creative, and scholarly work by students and faculty. These events highlight the wide range of research opportunities available to students, including internships, research courses, hands-on experiences, and grant-funded projects, while fostering a culture of discovery and collaboration across campus.
Research opportunities
Find research opportunities that match your interests and connect with faculty mentors across campus. Students can gain hands-on experience through programs like SRI and RAMP or explore additional opportunities by reaching out to advisors and faculty.
Graduate Student Research Exchange Program
Gain international research experience through a 10-week summer program with Dakota State University and AI Sweden. Students work in global teams to solve real-world challenges in AI and cybersecurity, spending time in both Sweden and DSU’s Madison Cyber Labs.
Madison Cyber Labs
Your hub for innovation
Since opening in 2019, Madison Cyber Labs (MadLabs®) has served as Dakota State University’s hub for research, development, and innovation. This 38,500-square-foot facility brings together students, faculty, and staff from all four DSU colleges to collaborate using cutting-edge technology in a flexible, open research environment designed to spark discovery and economic opportunity.
"There's a lot of uncertainty being an international student and moving from another country. But coming to DSU, was life-changing in terms of the opportunities available to learn and grow as a researcher."
RISE WITH US.
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News
DSU Cyber Camps open for registration
DSU is accepting registrations for its 2026 summer cyber camps, offering middle and high school students immersive, hands-on experiences in cyber, programming, and digital safety.
DSU Researchers To Launch Expanded Microplastics Study
Project will provide hands-on research experience for undergraduate students.
Four-year CyberAg Initiative to Conclude with Industry, Research Showcase
DSU and SDSU will conclude a four-year collaboration focused on cybersecurity in precision agriculture with a final event on Thursday, April 2.