Reports that the space agency provides universities with resources to invigorate and increase the effectiveness of space-related engineering research and education. Lists selected University Space Engineering Research Centers with a description of their concept, a program schedule, information and address for submitting future proposals for a…

Outlines one university's process of planning and preparing a successful proposal for a space research center which focused on a broad, cross-disciplinary study. States that as a result of the center, four new graduate courses were offered and a higher than average enrollment was attracted to the school. (RT)

The Transportation Training and Research Center of the Polytechnic Institute of New York is discussed, along with some issues that must be considered when interdisciplinary research is to be performed at an academic institution. (BB)

Describes several National Science Foundation programs which encourage interaction between industries and universities. They include engineering research centers, Presidential Young Investigator Awards, and programs in the Industrial Science and Technology Innovation Division. Indicates that industry's pressing need for solutions often adds…

Outlines university research policies, criteria for acceptability of research programs, and objectives achievable through research. Presents the role of the federal government and industry in supporting research and describes problems that arise in university-industry cooperative research. (GS)

Contains the text of an interview with the director of the Engineering Research Center (ERC) at the University of Delaware. Discusses interdisciplinary engineering research and its effects on traditional academic engineering. Describes the development and progress of the Delaware ERC, including eight recommendations for developing and operating…

Discusses the National Science Foundation's program to establish Engineering Research Centers (ERCs). States that this effort has provided a new impetus to interdisciplinary research efforts on university campuses. Claims that the concept of bringing together industry, academia, and government is necessary in addressing engineering research and…