Lethbridge Polytechnic Ranks Among Top Canadian Research Colleges

Institution climbs national rankings with strong applied research success

Lethbridge Polytechnic has strengthened its national reputation nowranking ninth among Canada’s top 50 research colleges, according to a new report released by Research Infosource Inc. The institution has climbed steadily over the past three years, moving from 11th in 2023 to 10th in 2024, and now reaching ninth place in 2025. 

Leaders at the polytechnic say the recognition highlights the success of its applied research model and its ability to support real-world innovation.  It is the top ranking in agriculture. 

“Being recognized for our applied research, when compared with so many other institutions across Canada, is a remarkable win for the polytechnic,” said Dr. Kenny Corscadden, vice-president – academic and research. “Over the past three years, we have consistently demonstrated our ability to compete at the national level. By offering applied learning and research opportunities for students and researchers in a growing number of industry and community-based sectors, Lethbridge Polytechnic is becoming an institution of choice for those interested in making a difference and taking their education and research to the next level.” 

Applied research at the institution began in 1999 with the Aquaculture Centre of Excellence. Since then, operations have grown significantly under the Centre of Applied Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CARIE). Today, research spans five major themes, including agriculture, food and environment; business and technology; health and wellness; justice and public safety; and sciences, social sciences and humanities. 

“The heart of applied research is responsiveness to industry and community needs,” said Dr. Andrew Dunlop, associate vice-president – research. “Lethbridge Polytechnic has worked to diversify our research capabilities, develop relationships with stakeholders and leverage the strengths of our researchers to solve challenges and problems.”  

Researchers have worked on diverse projects throughout 2025. These include greenhouse lighting trials,  non-destructive crop testing technologies, and specialized VR training tools for industry partners. These projects demonstrate the institution’s focus on solving real-world challenges across multiple sectors. 

Research Infosource Inc. also recognized Lethbridge Polytechnic for excellence in artificial intelligence activities. The institution ranked fourth nationally in AI Research Partnerships and AI Completed Research Projects. AI tools are being used to support new crop-testing methods, real-time decision-making studies, and other advanced research programs. 

Student participation is another area where the institution excels. With 92 paid student researchers, Lethbridge Polytechnic ranked sixth in Canada. Earlier this year, two students were highlighted for their contributions to irrigation research and community-based art programs. 

The polytechnic also performed strongly in other national categories, ranking second in research intensity per researcher at nearly $190,000 each, third in research income at close to $9.5 million, and ninth in research partnerships with 62 collaborations. 

A major $2.8 million donation received this year will further support applied research and innovation at the institution’s 385-acre research farm, helping expand future opportunities. 

Photo Credit: Lethbridge Polytechnique