Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa
Public University
Founded 1858
Iowa State University is a leading public research university with strong commercialization in agriculture, engineering, and bioenergy.
$462.3M
R&D (FY2024)
50
US Patents (2025)
101
Disclosures (FY2025)
57
Licenses (FY2025)
1
Startups (FY2025)
$25.1M
Business-Funded R&D
Research and Commercialization Data
Total R&D Expenditures
5-Year Change: 27.3%
Avg: 399.9
- Research spending (FY2024): $462.3M total, of which $25.1M was funded by business. NSF National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
- US patents granted (2025): 50 (rank #45). National Academy of Inventors
- Tech transfer (FY2025): 101 invention disclosures, 131 patent applications, 57 licenses and options, 1 startups. Iowa State University Research Foundation (ISURF) / Office of Innovation Commercialization
Research Focus Areas
Agriculture & Bioenergy
Crop science and bioenergy research
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Engineering
Mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering
College of Engineering
Biomedical Sciences
Cancer and cardiovascular research
College of Veterinary Medicine
Related Market Maps
Explore market opportunities in deep tech categories relevant to ISU's research focus.
Robotics & Automation
15% CAGRAutomated systems and robots for industrial and commercial applications
Market Size$90.2B
Advanced Manufacturing
12.1% CAGRNext-generation manufacturing technologies and processes
Market Size$410.7B
Biotechnology
13.96% CAGRApplication of biological systems and organisms to develop products and technologies
Market Size$1.55T
Neurotechnology
13% CAGRTechnologies interfacing with the nervous system for medical and research applications
Market Size$17.3B
Notable Spinouts
Programs & Resources
Tech Transfer Office
Iowa State Office of Innovation Commercialization (ISURF / OIPTT)
Services Offered
- •IP management
- •Licensing
- •Startup support
Interested in Tech Transfer?
Learn how to navigate university licensing and commercialization