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There are countless ways for researchers to imagine, develop and implement new innovations in the Capital Region. LSU and Southern University are especially adept at nurturing groundbreaking initiatives and connecting them to real-world problems, then finding the financial backing to turn them into reality.
LSU Innovation Park
LSU Innovation Park is a dedicated research and technology complex that supports entrepreneurs and growing companies by providing them with necessary facilities, resources and connections to the university’s research and talent. The park houses a diverse range of companies, including those focused on medical research and product development, data analytics and AI solutions, applied research and product development for national security, various consumer/commercial products, and renewable energy and environmental sciences.
Stephenson Entrepreneurship Institute
The Stephenson Entrepreneurship Institute is an integral part of the E.J. Ourso College of Business at LSU and is dedicated to promoting entrepreneurial practices through education, outreach and research. Its primary function is to foster an “entrepreneurial mindset” among students, faculty and the broader community, helping them identify needs and solve problems through innovative thinking.
Southern University STEM and AgTech programs
Southern University strongly focuses its research in mechanical engineering and other related STEM fields. Additionally, the university has an established and widely recognized agricultural science program. The campus also supports research in the sciences, which are often the basis for advanced research projects.
Pennington Biomedical Research Center
Pennington Biomedical Research Center conducts basic, clinical and population-based studies to translate scientific discoveries into real-world solutions. Current research focuses on the root causes of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and dementia. LSU frequently collaborates with Pennington in researching healthy aging, specific chronic diseases and public health issues.
LSU Energy Institute
The LSU Energy Institute conducts interdisciplinary research focused on advancing reliable, affordable and sustainable energy solutions through work on hydrogen, low-carbon fuels and carbon capture. Its research aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, assess the environmental impact of energy infrastructure and promote new energy technologies. The institute is also involved in talent development, policy, economics and the transfer of technology and commercialization.
Future Use of Energy in Louisiana
The Future Use of Energy in Louisiana, or FUEL, is a large-scale initiative led by LSU in partnership with the U.S. National Science Foundation and numerous other public and private organizations. Its mission is to transition Louisiana’s energy economy by fostering innovation, developing a skilled workforce and commercializing new technologies in areas such as direct air capture, sustainable fuels and geothermal energy.
LSU’s College of Human Sciences & Education
Under the umbrella of LSU’s College of Human Sciences & Education, the Healthy Aging Research Center conducts interdisciplinary research aimed at improving the health, well-being and independence of older adults and their caregivers. Additionally, the Social Research & Evaluation Center focuses on fostering healthy social systems by designing, implementing and evaluating community and social programs.
LSU College of Science
LSU’s Department of Biological Sciences offers research opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate researchers in areas such as biochemistry, cellular biology and ecology.
IN CONVERSATION
“One of the core missions of a flagship research university like LSU is to build the talent and facilities that drive regional economic development. … This is incredibly important in capital regions such as Baton Rouge, which anchors energy and chemical manufacturing industries, navigation and intermodal transportation, and health care services for our state and nation. LSU’s research talent and facilities bring the best students, post-docs and experts to the Capital Region to serve Louisiana—today, tomorrow and for generations.”
—Robert Twilley, vice president, LSU Office of Research & Economic Development
“As our academic institutions continue serving as anchors of regional innovation, FUEL is amplifying their impact by fostering customer-focused, use-inspired research that turns lab ideas into investable low-carbon solutions. Entering year three, FUEL builds on early successes and evidence-based projects. … We’re also empowering our greatest asset— students—by equipping them with entrepreneurial skills to advance their technologies toward real-world success.”
—Ashwith Chilvery, director of use-inspired research and development, Future Use of Energy in Louisiana
This story is part of Business Report‘s Capital Assets edition. Get the entire 2026 Capital Assets edition.
