Applied research

Practical Solutions For Real-World Problems

The Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE) is Durham College’s research and innovation hub. We provide research and development solutions through funding opportunities, faculty expertise, state-of-the-art research facilities, and student learning experiences. In partnership with industry and community agencies, we conduct projects that model or simulate solutions, develop and test prototypes, adopt new technologies and knowledge, and develop and evaluate new or improved products and processes.

Research projects carried out by faculty experts and students are administered by ORSIE. Students are the primary vehicle for the college’s transfer of knowledge to business and industry partners through applied research projects, work placements, and as skilled and knowledgeable graduates.

Areas of Research Specialization

THE AI HUB

Established in 2017, the AI Hub is DC’s first applied research centre. The AI Hub brings together the college’s technical expertise, high-tech facilities, and student talent, to conduct applied research activities that leverage AI to provide intelligent and autonomous solutions, increasing productivity and growth for industry partners while training a future workforce

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CENTRE FOR CRAFT BREWING INNOVATION

The Centre for Craft Brewing Innovation (CCBI) was launched in 2018 as DC’s second applied research centre. In recognition of a growing business sector within our local economy, the CCBI provides access to expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and micro-analytical services for the craft brewing industry, while enhancing the student experience with exposure to hands-on learning.

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THE MRC STUDIO

As DC’s third applied research centre, formally announced in early 2020, the MRC Studio facilitates applied research activities leveraging a state-of-the-art motion capture stage with virtual reality tracking equipment and a green screen. Research teams can develop experiential applications that integrate motion capture, virtual reality, augmented reality, and virtual production, creating solutions that increase an organization’s productivity and growth.

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CENTRE FOR CYBERSECURITY INNOVATION

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting networks and systems connected to the internet by predicting, detecting, and intercepting cyberattacks using technical tools such as firewalls and threat detection services. The Centre for Cybersecurity Innovation launched in 2020, and offers the opportunity to engage in applied research projects to combat the ever-changing, complex threat landscape.

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SOCIAL IMPACT HUB

By leveraging faculty expertise, student talent and strong community partnerships, the Social Impact Hub seeks to identify creative solutions to complex social problems through leading-edge applied research projects and service learning initiatives.

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AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE APPLIED RESEARCH

As a member of the provincial OVIN network, DC partnered with the Spark Centre and Ontario Tech University to become the Durham Regional Technology Development Site, advancing automotive technologies and smart mobility solutions. Through OVIN, companies can access expertise and resources to undertake applied research that will lead to advanced automotive technologies and smart mobility solutions, and tap into progressive advice, expertise, and knowledge around key focus areas for the sector.

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