R1 Research University
Top-Tier Research
Old Dominion University belongs to an elite group of institutions accounting for less than 5% of four-year research universities nationwide. Members of that group share the prestigious Research 1 (R1) Classification indicating “very high research activity.”
What It Means for Prospective Students & Faculty
- Increased value of an ODU degree.
- Greater potential for securing research dollars.
- Higher rate of upward mobility.
What R1 Means for the Region
A top-tier research institution can:
- Attract innovators and problem-solvers to tackle pressing community issues.
- Spur economic development.
- Encourage talent retention.
- Contribute to an ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship, commercialization and partnerships.
Here at ODU you have the opportunity to see the work actually being done in your laboratory courses or if you take on undergraduate research. You can work with your hands and actually see those concepts and principles come to life.
Novia Mann
Chemistry major
I'm a future public health practitioner. Public health focuses on creating better health for all individuals and creating opportunities for each community group. While I was at ODU, I started an internship and it turned into a full time job.
Rikki Caretta
Public Health major
Here at Old Dominion University, we are learning how to be the protectors of the digital world. One of my favorite professors brings a personal touch and energy that really makes you as a student want to engage and be a part of the classroom.
Zach Chandler
Cybersecurity student
[My] exciting new position with Polar Bears International extends the work that I do here at Old Dominion University, giving me additional opportunities for collaboration, research and outreach.
John Whiteman
Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences
I am excited about the [Research Center for Bioelectronics] because it will enable enhanced collaboration between scientists, engineers, staff, students, clinicians from EVMS and researchers from the Center for Bioelectrics.
Dr. Gymama Slaughter
Executive Director, Research Center for Bioelectronics
Research Powerhouse by the Sea
ODU’s R1 status and proximity to federal labs, the military, waterways and ocean makes it an appealing place to do impactful work. What's more, ODU is the most affordable R1 in Virginia.
Research Muscle
ODU is leading the way in:
- Coastal resilience
- Maritime
- Public health
- Cybersecurity
- Modeling and simulation
- Data science
- Bioelectrics
Research Relationships
ODU is a key academic partner for:
- Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (JLab)
- NASA Langley Research Center
- NASA Wallops Flight Facility
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
- Department of Defense
- Other federal agencies
