The University of Akron seeks to increase relevant knowledge for it stakeholders, including students, industries, governments and educational institutions. The University sees its research as a driver for finding meaningful solutions to advance the region. UA's research initiatives include:

• Research expertise in polymers and advanced materials, biomaterials and medical devices, advanced energy, computational science, and nanotechnology
• 70 new technologies disclosed each year
• A leadership role in the BioInnovation Institute in Akron
• Collaboration with industry through more than one hundred active sponsored research projects
• Entrepreneurship initiatives including the Akron Regional Change Angels (ARCHAngels) investment network that connects emerging companies to funding sources
• A technology transfer program that ranks first in Ohio in efficiency of commercializing research
• A nationally recognized research foundation (UARF) that shares its expertise with other major Ohio universities
• Collaboration with the Greater Akron Chamber to build, attract and retain high tech companies in Northeast Ohio
• A commitment to attract and graduate more students in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines through partnership in Akron’s STEM-focused high school