Research | College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Our Research

Research in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences expands knowledge, inspires discovery, and improves lives.

As UConn’s largest and most academically diverse college, CLAS researchers seek answers to some of society’s most important questions. Their work fuels innovation, deepens our understanding of people and the world around us, and creates lasting impact in Connecticut and beyond.

Research Strengths

CLAS is home to world-class research across the humanities, social sciences, life and behavioral sciences, and physical sciences. Our faculty advance knowledge within their disciplines while working across fields to address complex questions that no single discipline can solve alone. Together, these strengths drive discovery, innovation, and real-world impact.

Two physics researchers hold equipment while wearing lab coats.

Artificial Intelligence Quantum Information

Researchers across the College are advancing artificial intelligence, quantum information science, data science, and other emerging technologies while exploring their applications, ethics, and impact on society.

Two students tag frosted elfin butterflies at the Mansfield Hollow Restoration Area.

Climate, Environment, and Sustainability

Faculty and students investigate Earth’s changing climate and ecosystems while developing solutions that support resilient communities, healthy ecosystems, environmental stewardship, and a more sustainable future.

Connecticut State Historian talks with visitors of the Museum of Connecticut History.

Culture, History, and Human Experience

Through research in the humanities and social sciences, CLAS scholars deepen our understanding of cultures, languages, histories, literature, philosophy, religion, and the ideas that shape human experience across time and place.

A researcher uses equipment at the Cognitive Sciences Shared Electrophysiology Resource Lab.

Health, Brain Science, and Well-Being

CLAS researchers study the biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors that shape health and well-being across the lifespan. Their work advances understanding of neuroscience, brain function, cognition, behavior, aging, disability, and human development to improve health and quality of life.

Two students demonstrate a research experiment in a sound booth.

Language, Communication, and Connection

CLAS researchers explore how people communicate, learn, and make sense of the world. Their work spans language, linguistics, communication, literacy, social interaction, and intercultural understanding, providing new insights into how people connect, collaborate, and share ideas across communities and cultures.

A faculty panel discussion at an outreach event.

Policy, Society, and Social Change

CLAS researchers examine the political, economic, cultural, and social forces that shape communities and governments. Their work informs public policy, strengthens democratic institutions, and deepens understanding of conflict, identity, inequality, migration, education, and civic life to help build stronger, more resilient communities.

Research Impact

CLAS research creates impact far beyond the University. Faculty and students collaborate with communities, industry, government, schools, museums, and nonprofit organizations to translate knowledge into action — advancing innovation, informing decisions, and improving lives. Learn more about the College’s impact.

Impact Spotlight: NSF Quantum Technologies Engine in Connecticut

Quantum technologies have the potential to transform industries ranging from medicine to computing.

CLAS researchers are playing a key role in the NSF Quantum Technologies Engine in Connecticut, helping advance research, develop new technologies, and prepare the workforce needed to bring quantum discoveries from the lab to the marketplace.

Learn About QuantumCT Engine

Centers and Institutes

Research centers and institutes are where collaboration comes to life. They bring together scholars from across disciplines, support innovative research, connect faculty and students with partners beyond the University, and provide specialized expertise, facilities, collections, events, and funding opportunities that help research thrive.