UC Riverside’s research contributes to the economy of the Inland Empire and the state of California by generating local jobs and income, by developing products which may have potential commercial application and may provide the basis for the creation of new enterprises or the expansion of existing ones, and serving as a magnet for corporate research and development centers and related enterprises that need highly skilled University graduates.
UCR's Research Funding
The majority of funding received in 2006-07, which totaled nearly $98 million, came from the Federal government.
Funds from UCR's various research sponsors provide considerable economic value to the region, with the funds turning over multiple times through employment of personnel and purchase of goods. A primary added value is in the knowledge transfer within the local region and the nation.
Research Centers
In addition to academic departments, UCR has 29 research centers and 14 research groups and programs. These research centers span the fields of engineering, humanities, social sciences, natural and agricultural sciences, education, and urban planning.
The programs of these research centers contribute to the technical, social and economic development of the Inland Empire and beyond.
In addition, the research conducted at the University helps to inform policy-makers at the local, state, and national levels, contributing to standards and regulations that help protect public health and safety and promote the general well-being.
More information on UCR's research centers and programs is available through the Office of Research.
From the Laboratory to the Marketplace
The licensing of UCR patented technologies and other collaborations between UCR academics and private companies helps to develop new, knowledge-based companies with great potential to grow in the Inland Empire and beyond.
In 2006-07, UCR had 139 active license agreements, 202 inventions, and 79 active patents in the U.S.
Some examples of exclusively licensed technologies include Dr. Carol Lovatt’s research on the variability in fruit yield of citrus trees is licensed to Biagro Western Sales, Inc. for their Nutri-Grow line, and Dr. Stephen Spindler’s research on calorie restriction and its role in reversing aging and extending lifespan is licensed to BioMarker Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
University Research Park
The University Research Park is a regional economic development initiative which serves as a catalyst to develop appropriate facilities for technology-based companies.
A hub for emerging and rising science and technology businesses is being developed through a partnership between the city and county of Riverside and UCR. The 39-acre University Research Park is already home to several technology companies, including Qmotions, Ambryx Biotechnology, and Centrum Analytical Laboratories.
Future plans call for an incubator facility containing chemical, biological and electronics laboratories, as well as office space for emerging technology-based companies. An adjacent 17 acres will enable future expansion of the research park.