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.  

Female scientist working in a research facility examines a petri dish under a microscope.

Centers and Institutes

View All Arts and Culture Business and Economics Artificial Intelligence and Data Science Education and Child Development Environmental and Sustainability Health and Medicine Interdisciplinary Quantum Social Sciences and Humanities Specialized Research Facilities Technology and Engineering

* 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 center or institute

To establish a center or institute, please apply to the appropriate deans and/or  Research, Innovation and Economic Development leadership. Applications will be reviewed with advice from an ad hoc evaluating committee and/or the Research Advisory Council. Proposals may be approved or changes recommended in the name, scope or other aspects of the proposed center or institute. 

A center or institute proposal must include:

  • How the center or institute would contribute to UB’s mission, education and society
  • Background - including existing efforts and faculty involved at UB 
  • A comprehensive plan including: proposed organizational and leadership structures, nomination of an external advisory board, and a financial plan including a budget justification for years 1-3
  • An established communications team composed of at least one writer and one digital and graphic designer 
  • Potential for revenue generation (e.g. federal grants, training grants, clinical/service income, private and corporate donations)
  • Resources available/pending (space, equipment, administrative support, cash)
  • Requested school / college 
  • Internal and external letters of support from relevant department head and deans
Request proposal info

Operating a research center

Once a UB research center or institute is approved for funding, the operating guidelines outlined in the proposal should be approved by the center or institute members and the designated administrator. The Office of Research, Innovation and Economic Development will then allocate resources.