Wisconsin Institute for Discovery

Discovering simplicity in complex systems at the intersection of digital and natural worlds

4 Elements of WID-Interdiscovplinary Research, Inclusive engagement, Grand Challenge, Global Impact

The WID logo, a compass rose, embodies four elements of our outward facing direction–Interdisciplinary Research, Inclusive Engagement, Global Impact, and Grand Challenge–reflecting the Wisconsin Idea to enhance the lives of every person in the State of Wisconsin and around the world.

The Wisconsin Institute for Discovery is an experiment in interdisciplinarity, combining the best minds in new teams with powerful tools that transcend the boundaries of departments and fields to study change in complex systems. Learn more about WID >

Expertise at WID

Stories of Discovery

Research, outreach, and initiatives at WID embody the Wisconsin Idea — reaching beyond the walls of the institute and the UW campus and into the lives of citizens across the state, country, and world.

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Steve Wright (second from left) receives the Dantzig Award at the 25th International Symposium on Mathematical Programming in Montreal on July 22, 2024. Photo by Bill Cook.

Stephen Wright awarded prestigious George B. Dantzig Prize

Wright was chosen for his fundamental contributions to nonlinear optimization and for applying optimization techniques to such areas as control, compressed sensing, machine learning, and data science.

Serendipity reveals new method to fight cancer with T cells

Cells treated with “metabolic priming” retained their stem cell-like qualities, thus enhancing their ability to kill cancer cells, transform into durable memory cells, and survive longer in the body.

Researchers Develop Advanced Gene Editing Techniques to Boost T Cells in Cancer Treatment

A new study from the Krishanu Saha lab suggests using CRISPR technology to optimize natural immune responses by bioengineering and remodeling T cells. Using a multiplexing technique, the team addresses key challenges in current cancer therapies that could significantly improve treatment outcomes. "We have developed a new way to engineer immune cells to fight cancer more safely and effectively. Think of it as reprogramming the body’s own soldiers (T cells) to recognize and attack cancer cells," says Cappabianca.

Hub Central at WID acts as integrator for the campus community, generating new ideas that nucleate collaborative research projects. The individual hubs make use of WID expertise in applying specialized tools to a range of problems extending far beyond the scope of WID’s programs.

Explore WID's hubs:

As WID's expertise, campus needs, and scientific trends evolve, new hubs will develop to meet new challenges and opportunities.