Advancing knowledge, inspiring collaboration, and empowering discovery.
Faculty Research at Drake University
At Drake University, our faculty members distinguish themselves as outstanding professors and active scholars and researchers who tackle real-world issues. Through our commitment to research, scholarship, and engaged outreach, we elevate the intellectual life of our campus and foster rich opportunities for undergraduates, partnerships, and communities alike.
Supporting Faculty Research
Our Office of Sponsored Programs Administration & Research Compliance (SPARC) is ready to help faculty launch, sustain, and complete innovative research projects. From locating funding, preparing proposals, managing grants, and forming external partnerships, we provide structured support every step of the way.
Whether you’re a seasoned investigator or beginning your first external grant, the SPARC office is here to help.
SPARC’s support includes:
Identifying funding sources and developing letters of intent.
Preparing and submitting budgets and proposals in compliance with institutional requirements.
Managing awarded grants and contracts, including financial reporting and regulatory oversight.
Research at Drake is not isolated—it’s collaborative and immersive. Faculty scholars work closely with undergraduates, integrating them into meaningful research experiences that build skills, deepen learning, and enhance resume credentials.
Drake University also welcomes partnerships with foundations, corporations, governmental, and community entities interested in leveraging faculty expertise and student talent for applied outcomes.
Recent Research Highlights
Here are just a few recent examples of how Drake faculty and students are making discoveries and contributing to their disciplines:
A team of Drake students investigated whether grazing cattle reduces prairie biodiversity and found that it does not. Undergraduate Abbey Elmer co-authored a research article on the study alongside Associate Professor Keith Summerville.
Pharmacy students, working with Assistant Professor Andrea Kjos, investigated whether a mobile app could help diabetes patients manage medications.
Biology undergraduates collaborated with Associate Professor David Senchinca to compare physical activity on the Nintendo Wii vs. traditional exercises.
Senior marketing majors conducted qualitative research for existing companies, using focus groups and participant observation.
Why This Matters
For Faculty: Research enhances your teaching, informs your discipline, elevates your profile, and can help unlock external funding.
For Students: Participation in research builds confidence, skills, and sets you apart in future careers or graduate studies.
For Partners: Collaboration with Drake connects you to innovative scholarship, enthusiastic students, and faculty expertise committed to real-world impact.
Getting Started
If you’re a faculty member ready to explore a new research project—or an external partner interested in collaboration—here’s how to begin:
Reach out to the SPARC office for an initial consultation.
Browse our internal grant opportunities to seed early work.
Engage student collaborators early; research experiences are most effective when integrated into courses or summer projects.
Ensure compliance requirements (IRB, IACUC) are addressed early in the planning phase.
Stay connected to our page for inspiration and emerging opportunities.
