In 21^st Century, especially for developing countries like Ethiopia the nexus between research and technology transfer is so pertinent than ever. With the intention to become a research University, Dilla University (DU) has given due emphasis to research, community service and technology transfer. It will vigorously involve in generation and incubation, transfer of appropriate technologies and knowledge and partnering with stakeholders on problem-solving research that will stimulate national economic growth. These mandates are organized at a Vice President level in order not only to enhance research but also to connect and extend research undertakings to the local community and industry problems. Staff members of the University devote at least 25% of their time on doing research and community service to support the teaching-learning process and to solve modern-day societal problems.

Currently, the University undertakes numerous small scale researches, innovative technology transfer projects, various projects with national and international funding with medium and thematized research projects and other community service and development projects.