As a multidisciplinary university, UVSQ structures and focuses its research on strategic sectors: chemistry, physics and materials; environment and sustainable development; mathematics; computing and engineering sciences; biology and health; cultures, humanities and social sciences; institutions and organisations. This system forms the foundations of all the training programmes.

Research at UVSQ is conducted within 31 laboratories, 11 of which are units linked to the CNRS, 1 to IRD and 3 to INSERM.

Some laboratories are grouped together into research federations, and an "Observatoire des Sciences de l'Univers" (Universe-related Research Institute) is attached to UVSQ. Other laboratories have secondary sites established on a partnership basis in foreign universities. These types of structures represent centres of excellence, creating a network of skills and resources designed to foster the emergence and implementation of ambitious research programmes born of cross-disciplinary synergies.

The complementary and inter-disciplinary nature of the laboratories encourage the training of young researchers in the context of UVSQ's five doctoral schools. More than 100 doctoral theses are defended in these every year. These doctoral schools play a crucial role in preparing doctoral students to carry out research of an excellent quality and to gain an understanding of society and public or private companies, to manage innovation and develop an international outlook. Doctoral students are encouraged to prepare for their professional integration during specific seminars, known as "doctorials".

UVSQ strongly supports high-quality scientific production and innovation through a policy of resources, partnerships, research enhancement and technology transfer to society and the international stage. The dynamism of the laboratories is reflected by the numerous publications in international journals/reviews, patents and the implementation of projects in the context of "Agence Nationale de la Recherche" or European Community calls for tenders. Collaborative research projects with regional authorities and the socio-economic world have led UVSQ to participate in 5 competitiveness hubs. One of the tools for this dynamism in the Mantes area is the mechatronics technology platform. Researchers provide decision-making assistance to public authorities and play a role in knowledge mediation.

Within UVSQ, the Research Department coordinates and administers all research dossiers, contractual activities, technology transfers and doctoral training programmes and schools.