Grand Challenges
Washington State University research unites the best minds across disciplines to address ambitious goals, the Grand Challenges
The Grand Challenges bring research priorities into sharp focus. They team WSU researchers with scholars around the world—as well as federal and state agencies, national laboratories, business and civic leaders, and philanthropists—to target critical national and global problems.
This commitment to public service grows from WSU’s land-grant mission, which makes service to society a top university priority. WSU’s research strengthens communities across Washington and around the world. It enables students to see firsthand how to advance knowledge—and enjoy the adventure of discovery.
The Grand Challenges capitalize on the University’s fundamental and applied research strengths. They focus WSU’s research, innovation, and creativity in specific areas to achieve broad societal impact.
Agriculture
The uncompromising pursuit of healthier people and communities
- Onset and progression of disease
- Changing the course of disease
- Individual health and wellness
- Healthy communities
Sustainable resources
Supplying food, energy, and water for future generations
- Food production
- Water: Safety and sustainability
- Energy: Meeting needs while protecting the environment
- Perspectives and policy
Opportunity and equity
Promoting an informed and equitable society, expanding individual opportunity, and advancing social justice
- Inequal opportunity
- Promoting equity
- Policy evaluation and advancement
- Improving education
Smart systems
Harnessing technology to improve quality of life
- Smart and sustainable systems
- Foundational and emergent materials
- Computing, data, and information
- Technology and society