MDI Multidisciplinary Innovation

MAKING WAVES AND ADVANCING HEALTH

In 2025, Pitt Multidisciplinary Innovations set a new benchmark for impact across the university and the broader health care ecosystem.

Through our Multi Collaborative initiatives, MDI advanced high-impact research that challenges convention and reimagines what’s possible in human health.

In 2026 and beyond, expect expanded opportunities as MDI continues to accelerate discovery into real-world impact.

Image of the University of Pittsburgh Cathedral of Learning with a collection of numbers from the Pitt Un-Challenge. Over $1M across 45 teams from 12 schools and 25 departments.
An image showcasing the partnership between Pitt MDI and HealthForge Venture Studio and Bally Design. The image illustrates the process of design, develop, and market. A woman is pictured on the left and a man on the right.

From Collaboration to Commercialization

MDI drives researchers toward commercial impact. HealthForge Venture Studio, hands-on workshops help innovators spot high-potential opportunities and turn their science into scalable, market-ready solutions.

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
Logo of the Virginia Kaufman Pain Research Challenge in black and white.

Virginia Kaufman Pain Research Challenge 2026

The Virginia Kaufman Pain Research Challenge funds breakthrough solutions that move pain research closer to real-world impact, supporting teams addressing both the physical and mental dimensions of pain.

An image showcasing the partnership between Pitt MDI and HealthForge Venture Studio and Bally Design. The image illustrates the process of design, develop, and market. A woman is pictured on the left and a man on the right.

Connect, Collaborate, and Create with Us

MDI’s Multi Collab is a research incubator built to advance bold innovations that challenge and evolve traditional health care. Bring us your big idea—and let’s make it real.

A graphic with a neon green lightning bolt that states "Awards in 2025 average less than 3 months from application to approval".

Faster & Further

With more than 2,400 expert review assignments (among the most rigorous internal funding processes nationwide) 180 dedicated reviewers work in teams to identify and advance the boldest health innovations poised to redefine care.

A graphic of one side of a human brain with text overtop that states "MDI's guidance lit up the other side of my brain when it comes to the marketing portion of research. - Jennie Dorris. Project Unmute Team
An image of two women, one with a solid colored sweater and the other with a striped sweater and reading glasses. Text includes "It not only funds us - It trains us to be successful. - Smita S. Iyer. MEMBRAiN Team.
Multidisciplinary Innovations Logo in white over blue gradient background

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

About MDI’s latest funding programs, announcements, or awards.
Subscribe today and become part of our rapidly growing network.

Contact Us

Whether you’re refining a proposal or exploring a new project, we’re here to help bring your vision to life. 

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.