Impacts of Research
Every day, UC Berkeley researchers work to solve society’s toughest problems. From vaccines and computer processors to cancer treatments and AI, our innovations shape the fabric of modern life, and our discoveries propel humanity forward.
Support from the U.S. government makes this possible. Without federal contributions, breakthrough technologies that touch millions of lives would be lost. Below, learn about some of our researchers’ revolutionary discoveries, and how you can help protect their work.
The Dorsal Grasper assistive device, developed by UC Berkeley engineers, facilitates human-robot collaborative grasping for people with spinal cord injuries.
Health
From Nobel Prize-winning scientific breakthroughs to public health policy guidance, UC Berkeley researchers are leading the charge to solve challenging health concerns and save lives worldwide.
Curing genetic disease
Using gene editing, AI and other cutting-edge technologies, Berkeley researchers are working to discover new treatments for cancer, blinding eye disorders, sickle-cell and other diseases.
Advancing medical research
Our scientists investigate the molecular roots of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, diabetes — and are making groundbreaking progress to cure them.
Protecting the most vulnerable
Researchers at CITRIS Health use technology so that seniors and rural populations can gain better access to doctors and live healthier lives.
Lowering costs
UC Berkeley Labor Center analyses on health worker wages and insurance premiums help inform local, state and federal health care policy, saving money for all taxpayers.
Promoting public health
From preparing for the next pandemic to understanding the long-term dangers of pesticides and cleaning products, our researchers strive tirelessly to improve public health.
Building a better world
UC Berkeley’s research changes the way we understand and interact with the world.
Data Science, AI and Robotics
Our scientists push the boundaries of digital innovation and work to reshape how society interacts with technology. From advising regulatory policy to safeguarding against cyberattacks, we’re securing a safer, smarter future for all.
Shaping the future of technology
From robotics and quantum computing to next-generation aviation and space travel, our scientists and engineers are helping to revolutionize 21st century technology.
Creating responsible policy
UC Berkeley experts are building frameworks to ensure that AI and other new technologies foster inclusion and connection not division and harm.
Cybersecurity
Digital connectivity comes with risks of cyberattacks, data breaches and identity theft. Our researchers are creating tools to keep communities safer online.
A UC Berkeley research and development engineer collects a water sample. Engineers have created a simple and low-cost new arsenic treatment system to help low-income communities access safer water.
Energy, climate and environment
UC Berkeley researchers are advancing affordable, sustainable and clean energy solutions, while developing strategies to combat climate change and safeguard communities from climate-related disasters.
Expanding energy options
Using new innovations in chemistry, our scientists are harvesting sunlight for energy, reducing power plant pollution and discovering sustainable alternative fuels.
Preparing for disaster
To help communities build their resilience in the face of disaster, our researchers are designing earthquake-resistant structures and reducing the severity of wildfires.
Restoring the health of the planet
New technologies created by our scientists that suck carbon dioxide out of the air and reclaim used plastic, help ensure a greener future for our planet.
We need science to learn, when disasters like wildfires happen, how to protect people. If we can’t study wildfires when they happen, more people will be hurt when these disasters inevitably return.David J.X. González, Assistant professor of environmental health sciences
Basic Needs
To secure basic needs for future generations, Berkeley researchers are driving innovative solutions to help us gain access to clean water, healthy food and affordable housing.
Clean and affordable water
The safety of our drinking water is critical to the world’s future. Research is underway at UC Berkeley to better manage our groundwater and to find alternate water sources.
Healthy food
From influencing federal policy and solving farming challenges to bringing farm-to-table food to our schools, our research is transforming the food system.
Increasing housing
We’re finding forward-thinking solutions to increase the supply and lower the cost of housing, as well as address chronic homelessness.
Research funding
