Driving without disruption? You can thank UC San Diego. Computer scientist Stefan Savage exposed how hackers could remotely take over cars — controlling brakes, engines, even windshield wipers. His research pushed automakers like General Motors to launch cybersecurity teams, convinced federal agencies to create testing labs and spurred new national cybersecurity standards for cars. Today, millions of Americans drive more safely because UC San Diego research made car cybersecurity a priority.
Areas of Impact
Empowered Communities
From your car’s computer systems during school drop-off to the strength of the buildings you frequent to the secure connection that protects your bank account and the voting booth where you make your voice heard — behind the moments and places you count on there’s a world of research at work keeping you safe.
At UC San Diego, our researchers uncover hidden risks facing communities and build solutions that help real people. Our engineers test full-size structures on a giant outdoor earthquake simulator to learn how to keep homes, offices and bridges standing when the ground shakes.
Our computer scientists helped advance the security behind “https,” the technology that protects billions of everyday transactions online. Our political scientists work to increase voter participation and strengthen representation.
Our data scientists use AI to support communities, from helping small businesses bring fresh, healthy food into neighborhoods that need it most to helping firefighters and families see where fires start and how smoke moves.
And we don’t stop at discovery. Through workforce development and hands-on learning, we help people build the skills to lead in fast-changing fields, turning new ideas into startups and solutions that create jobs and strengthen communities.
Together, this work is empowering communities in California and across the world, making your life safer, fuller and more secure.
32,000+
jobs created by UC San Diego-related companies
Empowered Communities
Research in Action
Staying Ahead of Natural Disasters
ALERTCalifornia cameras can provide views up to 60 miles on a clear day and 120 miles on a clear night.
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Cleaner Air. Safer Communities.
Researchers at UC San Diego have for the first time found a direct airborne link between contaminated rivers and the air that surrounding communities breathe.
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As Wildfires Escalate, UC San Diego Researchers Turn to Science for Solutions
Increased temperatures, weather extremes and hot and dry conditions have intensified the threat of wildfires in California and around the world. Wildfire is an extremely complex problem and research and mitigation have never been more important.
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High Alert
One hundred ten feet above the wooded valleys and rolling hills in Northern California, a field technician installs a high-definition infrared camera on a metal utility tower.
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Stopping Wildfires
Detecting wildfires before they spread is a challenge now plaguing much of the world. UC San Diego’s public safety program, AlertCalifornia, is employing AI to help.
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These Smart Cameras Spot Wildfires Before They Spread
The newest fire spotters boast night vision, never take breaks and work fast—they often beat 911 human callers. Adding them ‘has made a hell of a difference.’
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SPEAK UP AND SUPPORT LIFE-CHANGING RESEARCH.
Meaningful impact takes sustained support from individuals, industry and government alike. Learn what fuels breakthroughs and how you can help by staying informed, contacting your representatives and supporting research in the ways that make sense for you.
