On a basic level, research is about addressing problems and coming up with solutions…something University of Kentucky Engineering students work on everyday in their labs…

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But the solutions they find aren't just earning them good grades…

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The solutions are being transferred from the lab…onto the assembly lines at the Toyota Manufacturing Plant in Georgetown, KY

SOT Bilal Gharhaibeh: "We are more relating our class learning to the real industrial environment.  That's very crucial for any engineer."

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…thanks to a one-million dollar donation from Toyota to create the Institute of Research for Technology Development  at the University of Kentucky.

SOT  Ahmad Slajmeh: "This will help us combine the theoretical part with the industrial part."

SOT Gharhaibeh"  "It is a golden opportunity to conduct real research where you are helping the industry while at the same point you are making good publications."

SOT STANDUP Amy Jones:  "Even though the new institute will be located at the engineering complex and at on off campus location in Lexington, university officials believe the initiative will impact the entire state of Kentucky."

SOT Dr. Kozo Saito: "Research is an economic engine…research is a good way for the university to conduct our mission."

…an impact that could keep more of these students working in the bluegrass state…even after earning their degrees.

…from the University of Kentucky, I'm Amy Jones.