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Institute of Transportation Studies

Research Overview

Graduate student Colin Murphy discussing his research poster with Professor Alissa Kendall

ITS-Davis is internationally recognized for its multidisciplinary approach to transportation studies. Sustainability is a key underlying theme. The world's growing need for increased mobility coupled with pressure to reduce its environmental footprint demands expert research and analysis to inform decision making. To address the challenges, ITS-Davis has built strong research programs in three areas:


The Institute thrives on a strong network of research partners, both on campus and off, and maintains close relations with ITS affiliates at the University of California campuses in Berkeley and Irvine. Researchers engage in projects with other campus departments as well as with universities and research centers around the world. Strong relationships with government and nongovernmental organizations, and with energy, environmental, and automotive industry experts further enhance the research program.

Professor Joan Ogden speaking at a STEPS workshop Title slide from TTP alumnus Ted Buehler's presentation on Fifty Years of Bicycling in Davis Professor Andrew Burke in the Vehicle Energy Storage and Fuel Cell Laboratory