Strategic Initiatives

USF Think Tanks

Faculty-Driven Collaboration for Bold Ideas and Transformative Impact

Supported by the USF Research Development Institute, Think Tanks are organic, faculty-driven collaborations that bring together interdisciplinary teams to explore emerging ideas, identify shared research interests, and generate solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

These research ecosystems are grounded in collaboration, innovation, and action—providing a structure for researchers and partners to pursue transformative solutions with greater scale and impact. They are especially valuable for teams working across sectors or in areas where complex challenges require integrated approaches, creative problem-solving, and strong external connections.

What Think Tanks Help Teams Do? 

Think Tanks create the space for researchers to think boldly, work collaboratively, and develop ideas that can grow into major initiatives. By building interdisciplinary networks early, teams are better positioned to solve complex problems, accelerate the movement of research into practice, and pursue transformative funding. 

Why Think Tanks Matter

Think Tanks create the space for researchers to think boldly, work collaboratively, and develop ideas that can grow into major initiatives. By building interdisciplinary networks early, teams are better positioned to solve complex problems, accelerate the movement of research into practice, and pursue transformative funding. 

Interested in Starting or Joining a Think Tank?

Don’t see a think tank in your area? Connect with RDI Support to get started today—email rsch-rd-institute@usf.edu.