Marquette Research and Innovation

Explorer Spotlight: GoWild! pocket prairie. This project brings a visual representation of what this area looked like 200-300 years ago. “33% of Wisconsin used to be prairie and oak savanna. Unfortunately, less than 1% of that habitat remains,” says Nate Lemoine, co-leader of GoWild! This project allows MU to participate in federal and state initiatives to restore pollinator habitats. It also serves as a teaching tool for biology and other courses.
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If you have an innovative idea that you want considered for the Explorer Challenge, visit our webpage (link in bio). Preliminary ideas portal open through January 30. Pitches will be heard in April 2026.

The Explorer Challenge ideas submission form is open online now through January 30! We welcome ideas from ALL MU faculty, staff, and students. See our website (link in bio) for more info.

Research and Innovation’s holiday lunch 💙💛
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! ✨

Thank you to everyone who attended our first Fire to Inspire Research Talk. Dr. Eugenia Afinoguénova gave a wonderful talk on her research regarding food studies. Stay tuned for our next Fire! 👀🔥

Earlier this week the larger Research and Innovation team had our staff retreat in the elephant care center at the Milwaukee County Zoo! Thank you to all of our amazing staff who show up and do the work every day.

Do you want to be an agent for change at MU? We’re looking for Innovation Council members to join our team immediately!
Member responsibilities: Review and edit the application process for the Explorer Challenge 2.0; Review and provide feedback on project proposals, including staffing office hours and workshops; Participate as a judge during the Explorer Challenge 2.0 pitch competition in the Spring; The council meets monthly during the academic year.
Send us a note about your passion for innovation at [email protected] by September 26. Open to faculty, staff, graduate and doctorate students.

Congrats to our 2025 Explorer Challenges awardees! We look forward to the implementation and impact of these projects.

Are you in need of some support and accountability with your research this semester? Join our 10-week Research & Writing Mentoring Circles! Hosted by our faculty fellow, Sally Gendron. Email Mel Baker by September 1.