NRRI Research Programs help organize our research projects. With over 200 research projects underway at any time, NRRI's programs help define projects into manageable - and evolving - areas of focus. Research programs also integrate staff across the institute to collaborate on novel solutions to Minnesota's challenges.
Developing technologies and methodologies that enhance energy efficiency and reduce effluent associated with extraction, separation, and processing of iron ore and other minerals.
Research focused on monitoring and understanding the impacts of climate change on various ecosystems to mitigate risks and develop potential adaptation strategies.
Research to assess the health and function of natural ecosystems, human impacts, and remediation strategies.
Understanding the characteristics, production, and application of fit-for-purpose biocarbon products to develop sustainable solutions for environmental challenges and industrial needs.
Commercializing and improving fast-growing trees for various applications, including bioenergy production, carbon sequestration and environmental remediation.
The MITI goal is to innovate and de-risk integrated industrial innovations promoting global competitiveness, secure supply chains, national security, and economic prosperity.
Development of extractive metallurgy processes that reduce carbon and other emissions to isolate metallic products from Minnesota minerals.
Leveraging geologic science and geochemistry to understand Minnesota’s resource potential while driving sustainable resource utilization.
Learning to harness the power of the sun and photosynthesis to fix atmospheric carbon and convert biomass to green fuels by leveraging the emerging hydrogen economy.
Cross-cutting institute expertise that supports all NRRI programs and projects, from developing custom web applications for visualizing data to material testing, and spatial analysis.
Developing innovative, renewable, bio-based materials that can replace petroleum-based materials in various industries and applications to reduce carbon emissions.
A multi-disciplinary program that studies water quality, with a focus on developing solutions to manage water resource sustainably.
Understanding the ecosystem needs of terrestrial and aquatic wildlife to inform conservation, restoration and management efforts of natural resources.