Research

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A Traditional Focus On Research

Close ties to industry and a desire to expose students to real-world problems as part of a hands-on education has inspired the Department of Wood & Paper Science at NC State University (WPS) to place a premium on original research for over 50 years. Today, we maintain internationally known research programs in the areas of wood products, paper science and engineering and the emerging area of forest biomaterials. These programs call on a number of research strengths unique to WPS:

  • Our faculty is devoted to original research and to engaging students in that research. Review our Faculty By Research Area section for more information on current faculty initiatives.
  • Our graduate students pursue original research as part of their education. Search NC State’s On-Line Dissertation Library for an idea of past topics addressed by WPS grad students.
  • We have established research partnerships with other departments at NC State and outside organizations to examine key industry and environmental issues. Check out our Research Centers for more information on these on-going research efforts.
  • We call on NC State’s proprietary strengths in new technologies and frequently work with the NC State Biotechnology team, the College of Engineering and other departments in examining uncharted areas related to our fields. NC State’s strength as a leader in nanotechnology and other 21st Century sciences contributes to our ability to push the envelope of research.
  • Our research equipment and facilities are state-of-the-art and include major laboratories devoted exclusively to the study of wood products and paper science.
  • BioResources is a hallmark WPS research publication that examines the emerging field of biomaterials and their potential uses. Click here for a summary of its mission, submission requirements and freely downloadable contents.

Our Research Mission

WPS serves the interests of scientific progress through research efforts that benefit the pulp and paper industry, wood products and allied industries. WPS is also dedicated to developing futuristic products and new processes that derive sustainable value from nature in an environmentally responsible way. For example, we are currently leading several efforts in the area of forest biomaterials, with an emphasis on emerging science related to cellulosic and lignin-related materials and chemicals.

Our goal is to remain among the top research programs in our specialty fields, both in terms of the quality of our output and in the development of research talent that will be needed to transform these industries in the years ahead as the world moves to a more bio-based economy.

 

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