School of Graduate Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship
Research
Research
The research mandate of the University of Technology, Jamaica aims to promote applied and commissioned research that will provide solutions to societal needs. This is ensured by aligning research activities with national goals and priorities for development as articulated in the country’s long-term development plan, Vision 2030 Jamaica.
The SGSRE has been designated “owner and driver” of the University’s strategic research-related initiatives. Therefore, the SGSRE guides and supports research activities as directed by the research mandate of the University. Supporting the work of the SGSRE are College/Faculty Graduate Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship Coordinators (C/FGSRECs) serving as the critical link between the SGSRE and the various academic units within the University.
Internal Research Grant
The SGSRE manages a competitive internal research grant fund – the Research Development Fund ( RDF). The RDF is an institutional fund, which was established to stimulate a research culture and build the University’s research capacity. Support will be provided for areas of research undertaken by UTech, Ja. staff members. Staff members may be eligible for more than one RDF award at any one time. Support will be provided to junior and senior academic and administrative staff members in positions which require research as a part of their job functions.
Journal of Arts, Science and Technology (JAST)
The SGSRE is responsible for the publication of the JAST, UTech, Ja.’s international, multidisciplinary, peer-reviewed journal. JAST is a medium through which staff members may publish the results of their research, alongside other researchers in other institutions and countries.
President's research Initiative Award
The President’s Research Initiative Award is the University’s most prestigious award in recognition of individual initiatives aimed at promoting research excellence at UTech, Ja.
The purpose of the award is to stimulate research and scholarly activities by encouraging and supporting individuals who demonstrate exceptional ability through their scholarly activities, research publications, research income generation and grants secured, creative research activity and other research outputs.Research Development Fund (RDF)
Research Project
The RDF supports original research initiatives from STEM and other disciplines, enabling researchers to explore innovative ideas, solve real-world problems, and contribute to knowledge creation.
Research Capacity-Building Activities
The fund invests in capacity-building initiatives, such as workshops, seminars, and training programmes, to strengthen the skills and expertise of researchers and their teams.
Conversion of Conference Presentations to Journal Papers
Publication Fees for Books, Book Chapters, and Refereed Journal Papers
Hosting of Conferences
The RDF supports the organisation of conferences that provide platforms for researchers to share knowledge, network, and collaborate on innovative projects.
Development of Publications Derived from Theses/Dissertations
Research Technology and Innovation Day
RTID provides an opportunity for the University to showcase its research work and capabilities to stakeholders. The event facilitates interaction between the University and its various publics. In so doing, the University not only showcases the research work it is doing, which is of value to the society, but also seeks to develop strong linkages with industry, academia, and government. The objectives of RTID are:
Research Ethics
The University is committed to high standards of research integrity. Researchers in the University should therefore demonstrate integrity, honesty and professionalism in the conduct of their research.
The requirement of academic integrity in research includes areas involving human and animal subjects; handling of data; publications (including the avoidance of plagiarism); conflicts of interest and misuse or misapplication of research funds. Any breach of these requirements will result in the penalties sanctioned by the University Ordinances.
Research Ethics Guidlines
Ethical clearance at the University of Technology (UTech) involves a two-stage process.
Stage one: Applications from lecturers and students are sent to the Faculty/College Research Ethics Committee Chair by email on or before closing dates for submission approval. If an application is approved, the Faculty/College Committee recommends to the UTech Research Ethics Committee for a clearance to be issued. If denied, the Faculty/College Committee notifies the UTech Committee on reasons why the application was turned down. The Committee will convey decisions to the applicants with five working days of the meeting.
Stage Two: Applications other than those from the lecturers and students are sent to the UTech Research Ethics Committee for a clearance.
Closing dates for submission will be three weeks prior to the meeting of the UTech Research Ethics Committee and will be strictly adhered to. The Committee will convey decisions to the applicants with five working days of the meet
Types of Research Requiring Approval
- Human subjects
- Animal participants
- Human remains, cadavers, tissues, biological fluid, embryos or fetus, etc.
- Secondary/archival research
News and Events
Funding Opportunities
Research Development Fund Under Revision to Enhance Opportunities for Researchers
The Research Development Fund (RDF) at the University of Technology, Jamaica is currently undergoing a comprehensive review to better serve the needs of researchers and innovators. The revision aims to expand funding opportunities, streamline access, and align the RDF’s focus with strategic priorities, including the promotion of impactful research, capacity building, and innovation for national development. Stay tuned for updates on the revised guidelines and enhanced funding options designed to empower groundbreaking research.
