Undergraduate and graduate research
At many universities, research is reserved for the few. At Western, we believe everyone interested in research should have the opportunity, whether they are undergraduate or graduate students. In fact, we offer many undergrad research options you won’t find elsewhere.
$59.8M
in research awards
—2024-25
$51.5M
in research expenditures
—2024-25
Use Cayuse for your research needs
The University has transitioned to a web-based system to administer research called Cayuse Research Suite. This user-friendly interface manages protocol creation, review, submission and files as well as simplifies the human subjects research submission process.
The coolest thing about my research is knowing that it is actually being put into practice at NASA. I always am amazed I get to do this every day.
—Margaret Mooney, B.A.'18 aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering Ph.D. candidate (from Shelby Township, Michigan)
Standout research
At Western, our constant pursuit of discovery often results in creating breakthrough research and innovation. We like to highlight and share updates about all the latest and greatest research projects currently taking place at Western.
Ready to launch
Students gain hands-on experience with the process behind the research and creation of a satellite that will perform space research.
Presidential Innovation Professors
Learn about the outstanding individuals who are making substantial contributions in teaching and research.
News and events
$3.17 million grant will energize electric vehicle research at WMU
Department of Energy grants WMU $5M to advance carbon capture and storage
WMU research team awarded National Science Foundation grant for AI readiness through cyber training
WMU researcher making groundbreaking gains in filtration of toxic chemicals
The 44th Annual Kalamazoo Community Medical and Health Sciences Research Day
April 2
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
W.E. Upjohn M.D. Campus
The 44th Annual Kalamazoo Community Medical and Health Sciences Research Day will be held on April 2, 2026, at the W.E. Upjohn M.D. Campus in downtown Kalamazoo. This is an opportunity to highlight the breadth of research and scholarly activity accomplished by our scientific community.The theme for Research Day 2026 is:“Translating Discovery into Practice: From Lab to Clinic, From Classroom to Implementation"
Evaluation Survey Clinic: Research, Innovation, and Creative Scholarship Celebration Week
Thursday, April 2, 2026 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday, April 3, 2026 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday, April 6, 2026 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday, April 3, 2026 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday, April 6, 2026 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
4010 Ellsworth Hall
Many groups on campus use surveys to learn about their impact or identify opportunities to improve services. Does your feedback or evaluation survey need a refresh? Do you need a second opinion on a survey a third-party firm is conducting on your behalf? Do you want feedback from students, faculty, or staff on something you're doing on campus and don't know where to start? Sign up for a 25-minute session with experts from the The Evaluation Center. You’ll receive tailored guidance and practical recommendations to strengthen your questionnaire.
Evaluation Survey Clinic: Research, Innovation, and Creative Scholarship Celebration Week
Thursday, April 2, 2026 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday, April 3, 2026 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday, April 6, 2026 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday, April 3, 2026 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday, April 6, 2026 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
4010 Ellsworth Hall
Many groups on campus use surveys to learn about their impact or identify opportunities to improve services. Does your feedback or evaluation survey need a refresh? Do you need a second opinion on a survey a third-party firm is conducting on your behalf? Do you want feedback from students, faculty, or staff on something you're doing on campus and don't know where to start? Sign up for a 25-minute session with experts from the The Evaluation Center. You’ll receive tailored guidance and practical recommendations to strengthen your questionnaire.
Fulbright Scholar Program Information Session: Research, Innovation, and Creative Scholarship Celebration Week
April 3
9 to 10 a.m.
Fulbright offers faculty and other professionals unparalleled opportunity to research, teach, or consult in 130+ countries worldwide. Opportunities range from 2 weeks to a full year. Come to the Research, Innovation and Creative Scholarship Week 2026 Fulbright US Scholar Info Session and learn about the types of awards available and what the application process looks like.
Project Impact: An Examination of Stakeholder Expectations and Institutional Positioning for Societal Impact in Business Education
April 3
2 to 3 p.m.
Schneider Hall
Project Impact explores stakeholder expectations for how business schools integrate societal impact and how WMU Haworth should address guidance for business schools to increase their strategic focus on societal impact.
The Office of Research and Innovation is ready to serve faculty, staff and students.