University at Buffalo (UB)
Research Centers and Institutes
With more than 100 active research centers, institutes and collaborative projects, UB researchers are solving some of the world's most pressing challenges, in areas of expertise ranging from the environment to advanced materials and technologies in applied manufacturing and from big data analytics to addictive behaviors.
Centers and Institutes
* denotes centers, institutes or initiatives powered by Research, Innovation and Economic Development (RIED).
Addressing core gaps in academia
Academic, discipline-based departments are the primary units for carrying out the university's mission. However, new problems or areas of scholarly work often arise that require different organizational structures. Interdisciplinary centers and institutes are key to developing innovative programs that keep UB in the forefront as a research and scholarly institution.
How to create a research center or institute
Program goals:
This program supports the development of sustainable research centers and institutes that address significant societal, scientific, technological, economic, and health challenges. Proposed centers should strengthen UB's research enterprise by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, expanding partnerships with industry, government, academic institutions, and community organizations, and enhancing competitiveness for large-scale external funding opportunities. Centers should also provide meaningful opportunities for student engagement and workforce development while demonstrating a clear plan for long-term sustainability and impact at the regional, national, and global levels.
Funding:
Seed funding may be used to support activities essential to establishing a sustainable center or institute, including strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, workshops, student support related to center research activities, and initial program development. Funds may not be used for faculty salary support, equipment purchases, or routine operating expenses unrelated to center development. Awards of up to $100,000 are available over a three-year period. Cost sharing is encouraged but not required. Funding is subject to the availability of funds.
Reporting Requirements:
Awardees will be required to submit a six-month progress report and a final report at the end of each annual funding period. Reports should summarize accomplishments, expenditures, partnerships, proposals submitted, funding secured, and next steps toward formal center or institute establishment.
Submission Process:
Interested faculty should first discuss their concept with their department chair and dean. Following these discussions, faculty should schedule a consultation with Research, Innovation and Economic Development to discuss the proposed center or institute before submitting a proposal.
To schedule a consultation, or request proposal criteria, please email Carol O’Connell, AVP, Office of Research, Innovation and Economic Development at caroloco@buffalo.edu.