Research and Development Office
The Research & Development Office oversees transportation-related research for NCDOT. Topics include materials, operations, planning, mobility, safety, structures, human environments, natural environments, and more.
In this role, the Office solicits ideas and proposals, oversees selection with a rigorous, multi-step process, and manages all State Planning and Research (SPR Part B) funded research projects. These projects are conducted primarily by in-state colleges and universities. The typical annual program development timeline is below. More details can be found in the documents to the right. Mechanisms are also in place to fund off-cycle projects with SPR Part B and other funds.
The Research and Development Office also offers project management, fiscal and analytical support for internal NCDOT business units conducting research. In addition, the Office also offers data analysis and research implementation support.
National Research Engagement and Library Services
The Office manages NCDOT's relationships with national research bodies including the Transportation Research Board (TRB), Cooperative Research Programs (CRPs, such as NCHRP), Pooled Fund Studies, AASHTO RAC, and University Transportation Centers. (See the National Resources tab for more information)
The Research Librarian maintains the State Transportation Library, including both a physical and digital collection. The Library acts as the TRB and AASHTO Publication Gatekeeper for the agency. (See the Library Tab for details).
Contacting the Research Office
Please make use of our Contact Us Form or visit our NCDOT directory page for direct contact information. Researchers that are interested in being included on idea and RFP distribution should make a request to be added to the Research Roster and attach or link a current CV.
NCDOT Research Projects
Browse and search our comprehensive list of research projects. This knowledge-base is built around NCDOT and partner efforts in transportation research and includes reports and on-going project infomation from 1999 to the present.
View Research Projects