Energy Transition and Policy Research
- In 2022, TU’s National Energy Policy Institute (NEPI) collaborated with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to conduct research on energy transition strategies for Oklahoma, focusing on the integration of renewable energy sources like wind and solar into the state’s energy grid. This research addressed policy questions on energy infrastructure, grid modernization, and carbon reduction strategies. NEPI’s findings were shared with state legislators and the DOE, contributing to policy recommendations that supported federal funding initiatives aimed at promoting clean energy in Oklahoma.
Cybersecurity Policy Collaboration with DHS
- In 2023, TU’s Institute for Information Security (iSec) worked with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to research cybersecurity vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, particularly within the energy and financial sectors. This collaboration produced policy guidance on securing essential systems against cyberattacks and strengthening national cyber resilience. TU researchers worked closely with DHS officials to provide evidence-based recommendations that were integrated into federal cybersecurity policy initiatives in 2024, influencing national security policies and funding priorities.
Water Resource Management Policy Research
- In 2023, TU partnered with the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to investigate the impact of climate change on Oklahoma’s water resources. The university’s experts in environmental science and law conducted research on water rights, allocation, and management strategies in the face of drought conditions. This collaboration resulted in a report with policy recommendations for regional water-sharing agreements and sustainable resource management. The findings were adopted into state policy discussions and influenced legislation regarding water resource management in 2024.
Public Health Policy and Rural Healthcare Access
- Starting in 2022, TU’s Oxley College of Health Sciences partnered with the Oklahoma State Department of Health to address rural healthcare disparities. The university provided research on the effectiveness of telemedicine and mobile healthcare units in rural areas, aiming to inform state-level healthcare policy. In 2023, this collaboration led to policy recommendations that supported the expansion of telehealth services in Oklahoma, which were implemented by the state government in 2024. This research contributed to new regulations that improved access to healthcare for rural populations.
Urban Resilience and Climate Adaptation Policy
- In 2023, TU collaborated with the City of Tulsa on a research project focused on urban resilience and climate adaptation. The project, funded by the city and state, aimed to assess Tulsa’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, such as floods and heatwaves. TU researchers provided evidence-based recommendations on infrastructure improvements, green space development, and flood control measures. These findings informed the city’s urban planning policies and were used to secure federal funding for climate resilience initiatives in 2024.
Criminal Justice Reform and Legislative Research
- In 2024, TU’s College of Law collaborated with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections and the Oklahoma Legislature to conduct policy research on criminal justice reform. This partnership focused on analyzing sentencing practices, incarceration rates, and rehabilitation programs within the state. TU’s legal scholars provided policy recommendations that were incorporated into proposed legislative reforms aimed at reducing recidivism and improving prison conditions. These findings directly influenced proposed bills debated in the 2024 legislative session.
Through these examples, the University of Tulsa has demonstrated its ability to collaborate with government departments to conduct policy-focused research on critical issues, directly influencing policymaking in areas such as energy, cybersecurity, water management, public health, and criminal justice reform. These partnerships highlight the university’s commitment to providing research-based solutions to societal challenges.