The following are key principles that guide the research function at RRU:

• The majority of research at RRU will focus on real world problem-solving.

• Action research and action learning will guide a large portion of research projects, as these methodologies are complementary to real world problem solving.

• Interdisciplinarity in research will complement RRU's flexible, interdisciplinary approach to education.

• Funds to support research will be sought from private industry, foundations, and international sources as well from provincial government sources and federal major granting councils. The latter will be encouraged where such funds provide leverage for private partnership development.

• Research innovation will be encouraged, and where feasible, commercialization of research will be encouraged.

• Recognizing the tremendous value in the "intellectual capital" of the workplace research projects, links between learners' host organizations and employers and the university will be fostered.

• Industry, inter-institutional, and community based research that is dependent on effective alliances and collaborative networks within industry, the business community, corporations, government, communities, and the public will be encouraged.