Research and Innovation

Access to safe and clean water is a basic human right, yet hundreds of millions of people worldwide live without it.​ At Marquette University, we apply a cross-disciplinary approach to solving critical water issues. Thought leaders among our faculty, staff and students have made Marquette ​a center for the study and exploration of water scarcity challenges facing Milwaukee, the Great Lakes region, the United States — and the world.

Our water programs and initiatives include: - In Defense of Water​ - Water Quality Center​ - Water Law & Policy Initiative - Great Lakes Water Innovation Engine​ - Science & Technology for Phosphorous Sustainability​ - IUCRC Water & Policy​ - Water Sustainability Lab​ - Community engagement and partnerships Read more about water initiatives at Marquette.

Marquette University's annual Distinguished Scholars Reception honors the recipients of prestigious research awards on campus, including the Lawrence G. Haggerty Faculty Award for Excellence in Research, Way Klingler Fellowship, Way Klingler Early Career Award, and Participating Faculty Research Award. Read more about the Distinguished Scholars Awards.

Click here to read about the 2025 Awardees. Previous years: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021 2026 Distinguished Scholars Reception will take place on April 16 at 2:30 PM in the AMU Ballroom.

The Explorer Challenge, originally known as the Strategic Innovation Fund, has supported collaborative and innovative ideas brought forward by the entire Marquette campus: staff, students and faculty. The unique nature of this competition was recognized by the University Economic Development Association with its Award of Excellence in Innovation in 2018. Judges at a pitch competition each spring determine the winners of the (up to) $25,000 seed funding. Learn more about the Explorer Challenge.

The Pitch Competition took place on April 9. Winners will be given their status by July 1. Submit an idea  2025 Winners View past awardees here.

The 707 Hub is a radically student-centered, boldly anti-disciplinary innovation space that is a catalyst for any student looking to act an Idea. The hub is a product of the Explorer Challenge, designed by students, for students, to foster collaboration and innovation.

The 707 Hub programs include:  - Brewed Ideas Challenge - Methods in Ignation Innovation - Silicon Valley Experience - The Dorm Fund - The Summer Catalyst Program - Spuddich Entrepreneurial Speaker Series (hosted by Hustling Sideways) - Student Made Marquette Contact Patrick Monahan to get involved.