The term "Pasteur quadrant" refers to the diagram below. The diagram classifies different motivations for pursuing a particular research topic. In particular whether the motivation is to promote human knowledge by seeking a basic understanding, or whether the motivation is to solve practical problems. 

 
The concept was introduced by Donald Stokes in his book “Pasteur's Quadrant - Basic Science and Technological Innovation”.
The IT University's research strategy is heavily influenced by the idea of Pasteur's Quadrant.