What is Applied Research at NSCC?
At NSCC, applied research isn’t just something that happens in a lab—it’s where ideas meet action. It connects industry, communities, students and faculty to solve real problems across Nova Scotia. So, what does that actually mean?
What is applied research?
Applied research is about testing ideas to solve real-world problems. It’s practical, hands-on and often driven by the needs of industry, communities and organizations. Instead of asking “What could this be someday?” applied research asks, “How can this help, right now?” At NSCC, that can mean:
- Building and testing new technology
- Collecting and analyzing data to inform decisions
- Designing, prototyping and improving products
- Listening to communities to better understand social challenges
The goal is simple: turn questions into solutions.
Applied research in action at NSCC
Across Nova Scotia, our hands-on research is helping communities adapt, businesses innovate and students gain real-world experience.
Take the Bridgewater flood model, for example. Our researchers used drone-based lidar and water-level monitoring to help the town better understand flood risks and plan for climate resilience. That’s applied research in action, data turned into decisions.
Or consider Shelter NS, where social science researchers conducted large-scale interviews to better understand men experiencing homelessness across the province. It’s not just about collecting numbers, it’s about elevating lived experiences to inform policy and create meaningful change.
In NSCC makerspaces, students work with our research teams and industry partners to build and test prototypes, like a solar tracker designed for off-grid communities. These aren’t classroom exercises. They’re real collaborations with real impact.
Behind the work
Behind every applied research project at NSCC is a team of expert research scientists and dedicated research staff working across key applied research areas, from geomatics and advanced manufacturing to social innovation, environment and sustainability.
Students are also an integral part of this work, often hired part‑time in research labs or supported through dedicated funding to lead their own applied research projects alongside faculty and industry partners. These teams bring deep technical expertise, local knowledge and a collaborative approach, ensuring projects are grounded in evidence, shaped by partners and focused on practical outcomes.
Who benefits from applied research?
Across Nova Scotia, NSCC’s applied research is helping communities adapt, businesses innovate and students gain real-world experience, often at the same time.
- Businesses and organizations test ideas, improve processes and reduce risk before investing further
- Communities get data, tools and insights to tackle local challenges.
- Students gain paid, hands-on work experience, in-demand skills and industry connections—often while still in school.
- Faculty and staff collaborate across disciplines, innovate and extend their expertise beyond the classroom.
Start a project with NSCC Applied Research
Our team will guide you through a clear, supportive process, from defining your challenge to delivering decision‑ready results.
What working with us looks:
- Meet to define your challenge (email contacts below)
- Explore funding and support options
- Develop a research agreement
- Assemble the research team and protocols
- Conduct applied research, testing and development
- Deliver results and decision ready outputs
Start the conversation:
- Industry and community partners:
- Students and staff: