Research

We’re more than education scholars. We’re also change agents, improving opportunities for individuals and communities. Research conducted at GSE helps us meet that mission, every day. 

Student presenting their research.

Advancing Education Through Research

Research is an integral component of our work, where the practices you’ll learn are shaped by discovery in the field. Our faculty and students conduct cutting-edge research in on-campus labs, rural communities and urban districts. Often, they examine equity and inclusion in formal and informal learning spaces. Ultimately, their work helps teachers, administrators, information service professionals, policymakers and mental health practitioners do their jobs better—which benefits society locally, nationally and internationally.  

Research, a Collaborative Effort

Our Office of Research supports faculty and student researchers through a truly collaborative process. This includes assistance with grant writing, comprehensive pre- and post-award support, and dedicated mentoring. By fostering partnerships and providing resources at every stage of the research journey, we ensure that both faculty and students can focus on their innovative work. Our collaborative approach helps secure funding, streamline administrative processes, and enhance the overall research experience, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries and impactful contributions to the field.

X. Christine Wang in the AI institute.

An Environment Ripe for Research Innovation

AI robot in the ECRC.

Every day at UB, faculty investigate anti-racist strategies, enhance digital literacy, pioneer educational reform and explore diverse initiatives that transform our field. To see what will be innovative tomorrow, explore what we’re researching today.

Centers, Institutes, Labs and Programs

Alberti center signage.

Whether confronting age-old challenges such as bullying prevention or breaking new ground in fields like artificial intelligence, researchers in GSE’s dedicated centers, institutes and labs are forging solutions to pressing real world problems.

Support for Student and Faculty Research

Student researchers.

We are committed to advancing research for both faculty and students. Our faculty members guide students through academic research, from conducting studies to publishing findings. By fostering an environment that values big thinking, we equip students with the skills to become accomplished researchers.

Research In Action

Russel Bassarath.

Student Research Success

For Russel Bassarath, the chance to travel to Cyprus on a Fulbright Scholarship was more than a chance to see the world. It was also a chance to make a difference in his new community—and bring home lessons that will make him a better teacher wherever his career takes him next. “I want to immerse myself as much as possible in the local communities that I’ll be part of,” said Bassarath, a student in the UB Teach program. “I’m not just going to be passive when I’m there for the nine months.”

Learn More About Russell's Journey

Faculty Research in Action

“Too often, stories about undocumented students focus on their struggles,” says Stephen Santa-Ramirez, an assistant professor of higher education at UB. “But their stories often overlook the joy that guides them on their journey,” he wrote in a paper published last fall. “These talented, beautiful, brilliant folks are doing so much good in our world, our society, and our colleges and universities. We want to support them holistically, which includes highlighting the more joyful parts of the narratives.”

Stephen Santa Ramirez.