Discovering Breakthroughs
Discovering breakthroughs is not just a goal, but a reality within the labs of the Applied Research division. Each day, the staff focus on projects driven strictly by the needs of industry in order to help foster economic transformation. While our Analytical Chemistry group offers elite testing services, our Advanced Materials team provides cutting-edge characterization and processing capabilities. The groundbreaking agricultural enrichment efforts of our Life Sciences & Biotechnology group and the Precision Agriculture team add to our pride in enhancing human life and presenting commercialization prospects.
Advanced Materials
IALR’s advanced materials research is committed to the development and application of cutting-edge materials and assisting the region’s organizations in re-energizing the economy.
Analytical Chemistry
Analytical methodology development and chemical testing services help expedite decision-making processes, quantify the efficacy of products under development and offer access to state-of-the-art equipment.
Hemp Resource Hub
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is excited to lead the emerging hemp market by combining plant science expertise with analytical chemistry services and market connections.
Plant Endophyte Research Center
IALR’s Plant Endophyte Research Center is the first of its kind in the U.S. It leverages private and public partnerships, an elite team of scientists and exclusive equipment and testing services. A library of 2,000 endophytes, or beneficial plant bacteria, show promise as natural biostimulants—reducing chemical fertilizer use and preserving the environment.
Precision Agriculture
Precision agriculture improves the efficiency of farmers by using technology to pinpoint crop areas needing attention. IALR’s SMART tables, which are precision imaging platforms, record and track plant growth and responses to environmental stimuli. Drones provide crop images and expedite identification of problem areas.
Success Stories

Unique Workshop Promotes Collaboration Needed to Move Science Forward

VA Tech Students at IALR

Patrick Henry Community College Visits IALR
Experimental Water Treatment Project
High-Tech Farming
Natural Products & Chemistry
Institute Receives Tobacco Commission Grant to Assist Growers
Impressive Research Results for Growers
Polymers: Processing and Analytical Support
Expanding Virginia’s Vineyards
Through a cost-share program, IALR works with the Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission and the Virginia Vineyards Association to increase vineyard acreage and address the shortage of Virginia-grown grapes.