Research Partnership Opportunities

SRC advances applied, data-based research to improve the practice of integrated marketing communications. Its digital-forward mission focuses on understanding the types of engagement that drive measurable results and translating those insights into practical guidance for organizations. The work is grounded in rigorous empirical research, but always oriented toward real-world application.

SRC partners with organizations that value evidence-based decision-making and are committed to strengthening integrated communications practice through research. Explore the partnership opportunities below.

For more information or to get involved, contact Larry DeGaris, larry.degaris@northwestern.edu.

Principal Research Partner
$100,000 annually

Principal Research Partners support major research initiatives led by Spiegel faculty. These partnerships may include alignment on research focus and design, early discussion of findings, and opportunities for executive briefings. Principal Partners are typically recognized in connection with select SRC publications and conferences.

Research Collaborator
$50,000 annually

Research Collaborators engage with Spiegel faculty on applied research intended to inform practice. Collaboration may include participation in research reports, conference presentations, or related scholarly and industry-facing work, as appropriate for the project.

Scholars Partner
$25,000 annually

Scholars Partners support graduate student research conducted under faculty guidance. Projects are structured around defined business questions and conclude with a presentation of findings and recommendations.

Research Affiliate
$2,500 annually

Research Affiliates participate in the broader Spiegel research community. Research Affiliates have advanced access to select research findings, invitations to presentations or events, and opportunities to provide perspective on emerging research priorities.

Partner Testimonials

"Fresh horses is what I needed and what I got from Spiegel. I needed a team that was not intimidated by massive data sets and short timelines. Amazing insights. Immediately applicable. "

Jerry Dow (MSA89)

CMO at Suddenlink Communications

"Our collaboration with the Medill Spiegel Research Center provided us with new insights to help better evaluate customer signals with content and marketing activations."

Kristin Chisesi, Managing Director at Deloitte Services LP
&
Michael Simone, Senior Manager at Deloitte Services LP

Companies That Have Partnered With the SRC

Our Research Process

STEP ONE

Select the Topic

We collaborate with our industry-leading advisory board and industry practitioners to develop timely customer and marketing research questions.

STEP TWO

Gather Data

We investigate these issues by working with our corporate partners who share databases with us.

STEP THREE

Analyze

Our experienced researchers apply the most appropriate theories and models to unpuzzle the core issue.

STEP FOUR

Refine & Share

We work with partners to refine in-market tests, validate research results and share the final insights with professionals and academics in trade, academic, and popular press.