CDA research and outreach
Innovation with local and global impacts
At University of Idaho Coeur d’Alene, research isn’t confined to a lab — it’s embedded in the community, shaping the future of North Idaho and beyond. Through innovative research, meaningful outreach and strong regional partnerships, U of I Coeur d’Alene students and faculty tackle real-world challenges while making a lasting impact.
University of Idaho Coeur d’Alene is driving North Idaho’s future through innovative programs that fuel economic development, support advanced manufacturing and promote environmental stewardship. By connecting students, researchers and industry leaders, we create hands-on learning experiences, cutting-edge research opportunities and community-driven solutions that shape a thriving, sustainable region.
Student research and academic excellence
U of I Coeur d’Alene offers one-of-a-kind opportunities to engage in meaningful research that connects classroom learning with practical experience. As an undergraduate or graduate student, you can work alongside faculty and industry leaders on projects in precision agriculture, robotics, K-12 education and more. Whether through internships, student teaching or independent research, this hands-on experience prepares you for a career or advanced study.
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Work alongside faculty and industry leaders on projects.
As a student, you’ll have the opportunity to
- Collaborate on research projects led by faculty, postdoctoral researchers or fellow students.
- Access funding through grants and scholarships from U of I’s Office of Undergraduate Research.
- Participate in interdisciplinary studies that address regional and global challenges.
- Engage with local businesses, government agencies and nonprofits on applied research.
- Participate in state-sponsored or federally funded projects.
Shaping the future of robotics
The Center for Intelligent Industrial Robotics (CIIR) is revolutionizing robotics education and research. The center equips students with skills to drive innovation in automation and manufacturing. In collaboration with industry leaders like Idaho Forest Group, CIIR provides training with cutting-edge robotic systems, from mobile robots to advanced mechanical arms. With state-of-the-art labs in Coeur d’Alene and Moscow, CIIR’s collaborative network is preparing the next generation of engineers to solve global manufacturing challenges.
Driving innovation in water research
The Idaho Water Resources Research Institute (IWRRI) leads cutting-edge water research and tackles Idaho’s most pressing water challenges while shaping the future of water resource management. As one of the nation’s 54 water research and technology centers, IWRRI drives innovation, trains the next generation of water science leaders and delivers data-driven solutions to communities.
IWRRI’s collaborative outreach and education efforts empower water managers, scientists and the public with the knowledge and tools essential to sustain Idaho’s water resources.
Supporting educators and school leaders
UIdaho Coeur d’Alene provides educators and school administrators with resources and training to enhance student success. Partnering with K-12 schools across the state, we strengthen teaching, improve outcomes and inspire growth through professional development, instructional research and leadership programs.
Idaho Building Capacity Project
The Idaho Building Capacity (IBC) Project partners with schools to create sustainable, customized improvement plans that boost student achievement and support at-risk communities through expert guidance and collaboration.
Region One Collaborative Outreach Network
The Region One Collaborative Outreach Network (ROC-ON) unites K-12 schools, Idaho State Board of Education and U of I to enhance K-12 leadership and learning through professional development, mentorship and research.
Indigenous Knowledge for Effective Education
The Indigenous Knowledge for Effective Education Program (IKEEP) at University of Idaho is dedicated to preparing and certifying culturally responsive Indigenous teachers who uplift and inspire Native American students in K-12 schools. In North Idaho, IKEEP works to support the educational sovereignty of the Schitsu’umsh (Coeur d’Alene) and Ktunaxa (Kootenai) Tribes of Idaho by supporting culturally revitalizing and sustaining teacher and leader preparation programming.
Idaho Regional Mathematics Centers
Idaho Regional Mathematics Centers provide expert-led training, professional development and research-backed strategies to support K-12 math teachers statewide. The Coeur d’Alene-based staff ensures educators — especially in rural areas — receive high-quality, localized support to strengthen math instruction and student success.
TRIO in Coeur d’Alene
The TRIO programs at University of Idaho Coeur d’Alene are dedicated to empowering students from disadvantaged backgrounds by providing the support, resources and guidance needed to succeed in higher education. Coeur d’Alene-based TRIO programs serve hundreds of middle and high school students, as well as college-bound adults, in Kootenai County and the Silver Valley.
North Idaho Extension
University of Idaho Extension in North Idaho connects communities with research-based education and resources to support sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, youth development and economic growth. Our outreach staff empower individuals and businesses with the knowledge and tools to thrive in Idaho’s landscapes, supporting areas like 4-H youth development, forestry, small farms and water management.