Research Themes
Energy and environmental challenges demand new ideas and collaboration. IEE’s five research themes organize interdisciplinary work, bringing Penn State and IEE researchers together around shared challenges and areas of focus to develop science-based solutions.
Climate and Natural Systems
Understanding Earth’s systems, feedbacks, and anthropogenic impacts
Health and the Environment
How environmental conditions affect human health and wellbeing
Integrated Energy Systems
Energy production, distribution, storage technologies, and grid integration
Equitable Communities & the Built Environment
How communities, planning, infrastructure, and design shape equitable, sustainable outcomes
Water Sustainability
Water quality, quantity, access, ecosystems, and human use
Progress Isn't Promised
At Penn State, researchers are solving real problems that impact the health, safety, and quality of life of people across the Commonwealth, the nation, and around the world.
For decades, federal support for research has fueled innovation that makes our country safer, our industries more competitive, and our economy stronger. Recent federal funding cuts threaten this progress.
Research Projects
IEE funds and supports basic and applied research projects on strategic interdisciplinary topics that leverage faculty expertise to solve critical energy and environmental challenges.
Research Awards
IEE's Research Awards program acknowledges research excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and faculty mentorship.
IEE-Funded Projects in the News
News, updates, and results from IEE-funded research projects
