Advancing research, innovation, entrepreneurship and strategic partnerships at ASU
Knowledge Enterprise
We are changing the way the world solves problems.
Driving discovery, innovation and solutions
Knowledge Enterprise is the engine that drives discovery and innovation at Arizona State University, one of the fastest growing research institutions in the U.S. We empower researchers, forge partnerships, invest in our communities and pioneer interdisciplinary thinking. Our goal is not simply to find solutions, but to fundamentally reshape how the world solves problems.
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ResearchDiscoveryInnovationImpact
Our impact
Arizona State University is a global leader in interdisciplinary research, discovery and development. Our rapid growth and top rankings demonstrate our success at delivering new knowledge and solutions that support thriving people, a thriving planet and thriving societies.
2024 year in review
In 2024, ASU researchers celebrated their legacy in nature-inspired solutions, understanding human origins and ocean research, while looking to the future with revolutionary work in artificial intelligence, semiconductors and health in Arizona.
$904 million
ASU has expanded its research enterprise more than sixfold in the past 20 years, reaching $904 million in research expenditures in FY 2023.
250+ companies
More than 250 companies have launched based on ASU innovations, attracting $1.4 billion in external funding.
#1 in innovation
For the tenth year in a row, U.S. News & World Report named ASU the most innovative school in the U.S. in its 2025 college rankings, ahead of MIT and Stanford.
Lab Coat Optional podcast
On Lab Coat Optional, host Pete Zrioka interviews ASU researchers at the forefront of their fields — minus the jargon. Leave your lab coat at the door and tune in to learn about the latest research from ASU.
Lab Coat Optional
Lab Coat Optional is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University, released every other Wednesday.
We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu.
Lessons from the Amazon: the secrets of healthy aging, with Ben Trumble
In the lowlands of Bolivia, there is a hunter-gatherer population living among the headwaters of the Amazon. Despite infrequent access to medical care and constant exposure to parasites and pathogens, the Tsimane people have some of the lowest instances of heart disease and Alzheimer’s in the world. Listen as human biologist Ben Trumble talks about his quest to learn what we can from the Tsimane about healthy aging before industrialization — before it’s too late.
Research disclaimer:
Research involving the Tsimane is ethically approved by the researchers universities, the Universidad Mayor San Simon in Bolivia, and the Tsimane and Moseten governments. Each community, community leaders, and study participants approved all research protocols, and all participants provided informed consent in their native language. The study helps provide medical care and connection with Bolivian social support services, including for individuals who don’t participate in research. During a study, when incidental health findings arise, participants are advised and supported to receive medical treatment. This study is also partnered with the One Pencil Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit that provides scholarships and school supplies to Tsimane children.
Learn more about:
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- The Institute of Human Origins
- Tsimane Health and Life History Project
- The Trumble Lab
- New research focused on the Tsimane
Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram and LinkedIn, or visit us at research.asu.edu.
Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show.
Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice.
Episode credits
Executive produced by Kate Howells
Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka
Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka
Shot by Alexander Chapin
Edited by Quinton Kendall and Alexander Chapin
Original music by Patrick Cheung
Motion graphics by Andy Ramos
Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz
Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson
Keyword research by Aditi Patel
Intro music “Mission Cool” by Christopher Baron
Disclaimer:
Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.
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Lab Coat Optional
Lab Coat Optional is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University, released every other Wednesday.
We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu.
Everyday exposures, lasting effects: how diet and environment may shape dementia, with Ramon Velazquez
This episode we’re diving into the science of memory, aging, and what might be quietly shaping the health of aging minds.
Guest Ramon Velazquez explains what happens in the brain during Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia — and more importantly, what might trigger them in the first place. From essential nutrients to common weedkillers, his research is uncovering how everyday exposures can influence lifelong brain health.
Read more about Ramon’s research on:
Learn more about the Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University, the ASU-Banner Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center and Ramon’s lab.
Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram and LinkedIn, or visit us at research.asu.edu.
Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show.
Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice.
Episode credits
Executive produced by Kate Howells
Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka
Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka
Shot by Alexander Chapin and Christian Van Bebber
Edited by Quinton Kendall
Original music from Patrick Cheung
Motion graphics by Andy Ramos
Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz
Research and reporting by Richard Harth
Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson
Keyword research by Aditi Patel
Disclaimer:
Lab Coat Optional is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This show does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the information provided is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Arizona State University is committed to the ethical and humane treatment of animals in advancing research that benefits humans, animals and the environment. Learn more about ASU’s Animal Care and Use Program.
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Lab Coat Optional
Lab Coat Optional is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University, released every other Wednesday.
We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu.
Keeping people safe and cool in the hottest city in the U.S., with Patricia Solís and Dr. Nick Staab
Amidst ever-increasing temperatures, how can we keep people safe from heat-related illness and death?
Listen as two experts from Maricopa County — home to the sweltering city of Phoenix — share how they work and collaborate to ensure everyone has a fighting chance when extreme heat strikes. This episode features Patricia Solís, executive director at the Knowledge Exchange for Resilience at Arizona State University and Dr. Nick Staab, chief medical officer at Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
Learn more about the Knowledge Exchange for Resilience and their mission to tackle interconnected problems with use-inspired research that builds community resilience. The Knowledge Exchange for Resilience is a unit of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory® at ASU.
Learn more about:
Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram and LinkedIn, or visit us at research.asu.edu.
Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice! We are at the mercy of the mighty, fickle algorithms and reviews help new listeners find our show.
Do you have thoughts or questions for us? Email us at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you! As long as you are nice. Be nice.
Episode credits
Executive produced by Kate Howells
Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka
Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka
Shot and edited by Alexander Chapin
Original music by Patrick Cheung
Motion graphics by Andy Ramos
Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz
Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson
Keyword research by Aditi Patel
Special thanks to Courtney Kreuzwiesner and Sonia Singh
Disclaimer
Lab Coat Optional is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This show does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the information provided is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.
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Accelerate your research
Whether you need help finding funding opportunities, crafting a proposal or commercializing your discoveries — ASU supports researchers through the entire research cycle.
Partner with us
We can accomplish more together. Find out how you can create customized partnerships with ASU that help your organization thrive.
Gain career experience
Students are vital to our ecosystem of research, entrepreneurship and innovation. Find opportunities to apply your coursework to hands-on projects and real-world challenges.
Support discovery
Philanthropy plays an important role in creating knowledge, pioneering discovery and catalyzing innovation. Learn how your gift can advance our work.
Be a part of ASU Knowledge Enterprise
Advance your career while making a difference. Knowledge Enterprise employees support research and innovation that benefits our communities and our world. And they enjoy generous and broad benefits including health and life insurance, retirement, tuition reduction and much more.