Institutes & Centers
UCF is home to a variety of research centers and institutes that drive innovation and address real-world challenges
The Florida Board of Governors defines three types of institutes and centers in its Regulation 10.015:
State of Florida
Recognized by the Board of Governors
Florida Legislature
Created by legislation
University
Approved by the university president
Advanced Materials Processing and Analysis Center (AMPAC)
Director: Jiyu Fang
Type : University
The Advanced Materials Processing and Analysis Center (AMPAC) advances excellence in materials science and engineering through interdisciplinary research, education, and industry collaboration. AMPAC focuses on the design, processing, and characterization of advanced materials in key areas such as energy, biotechnology, microelectronics, and nanotechnology.
The center supports UCF’s MSE programs, fosters high-tech economic growth in Central Florida, and manages the Materials Characterization Facility (MCF), a resource for both academic and industry partners.
Biomolecular Science Center
Director: Griff Parks
Type : University
The Biomolecular Science Center is a university-wide interdisciplinary hub advancing research and training in the molecular and genomic foundations of disease and therapeutics. Our work focuses on four key areas: cancer, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Center for Autism and Related Disabilities
Director: Terri Daly
Type : Florida Legislature, State
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) supports individuals with autism and their families through personalized guidance, evidence-based training, community education, and public awareness. Our goal is to help every individual with autism reach their full potential across all stages of life.
Center for Community Schools
Director: Amy Ellis
Type : Florida Legislature, State
The Center for Community Schools is a comprehensive resource dedicated to advancing community schools through technical assistance, assessment, evaluation, and university partnerships. We work to drive continuous improvement and deliver better outcomes for students, families, and communities.
Center for Research & Education in Optics and Lasers: College of Optics
Director: David Hagan
Type : Florida Legislature, State
CREOL, The College of Optics and Photonics, is a world leader in education, research, and industry partnerships in the science and technology of light. We offer high-quality academic programs and train a diverse workforce in optics, lasers, and photonics, supporting industries ranging from healthcare to telecommunications. Through cutting-edge fundamental and applied research, CREOL advances innovations that drive Florida’s and the nation’s knowledge-based and technology-driven economies.
Townes Laser Institute (TLI) Center of Excellence
Director: Peter J. Delfyett
Type : Florida Legislature, State
Townes Laser Institute (TLI) develops next-generation laser light engines for applications in medicine, advanced manufacturing, and defense. Our research spans ultra-fast laser technologies, laser materials processing, novel optics for high-power lasers, fiber lasers, laser-based sensing, and laser-plasma EUV sources.
Florida Photonics Center of Excellence (FPCE)
Director: David Hagan
Type : Florida Legislature, State
Florida Photonics Center of Excellence (FPCE) advances excellence in research and graduate education to support Florida’s photonics, optics, and laser industries. We leverage partnerships with industry, government, and economic development organizations to attract, retain, and grow knowledge-based, wealth-generating industries across the state.
Center for the Study of Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery
Director: Jessica Wickey
Type : Florida Legislature, State
The Center for the Study of Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery (CSHTMS) expands understanding of human trafficking and modern slavery through community engagement, research, education, training, student fellowships, and survivor scholarships, all aimed at finding effective solutions to this global challenge.
Center for Research in Education Simulation Technology (CREST)
Director: Lisa Dieker and Charles Hughes
Type: University
Center for Research in Education Simulation Technology (CREST) develops core ideas, technologies, and socially relevant applications of education simulation tools created at UCF and through its partnerships.
Center for Public and Nonprofit Management (CPNM)
Director: Maritza Concha
Type: University
The Center for Public and Nonprofit Management (CPNM) strengthens leadership and management in public and nonprofit organizations through sponsored research and capacity-building services.
Community Counseling and Research Center (CCRC)
Director: Viki Kelchner
Type: University
CCRC promotes mental health and wellness for children, adults, and families in Central Florida. We provide professional counseling services, graduate student training, and collaborate with community organizations to support diverse and underserved populations. Committed to inclusive, ethical care, we conduct research that advances understanding and practical applications to improve lives across all backgrounds and needs.
Dick Pope Sr. Institute for Tourism Studies
Director: Cynthia Mejia
Type: Florida Legislature, State
The Dick Pope Sr. Institute for Tourism Studies (DPIT) is dedicated to improving the quality of Florida’s tourism industry and maximizing its benefits for the state and Central Florida communities. Since its inception, DPIT has focused on three core objectives: research, public awareness, and education.
Environmental Systems Engineering Institute
Director: Steven Duranceau
Type:Florida Legislature, State
The Environmental Systems Engineering Institute (ESEI) advances knowledge and practice in environmental engineering with a focus on water quality. Specializing in drinking water treatment, ESEI researches membrane filtration techniques—such as reverse osmosis, nanofiltration, and microfiltration—as well as coagulation and flocculation methods. The institute is dedicated to providing students with top-quality education in a dynamic, research-driven, and intellectually diverse environment.
Executive Development Center
Director: Darrell Johnson
Type: Florida Legislature, State
The UCF College of Business Executive Development Center (EDC) offers executive and professional graduate degrees in business administration, management, accounting, and real estate, along with specialized executive education programs for individuals and organizations locally and globally. EDC is dedicated to meeting the business community’s needs, enhancing the college’s reputation for teaching excellence, supporting research and development, and strengthening community ties.
Florida Canada Linkage Institute (FCLI)
Director: Mark Hartman
Type : Florida Legislature, State
The Florida-Canada Linkage Institute (FCLI) is dedicated to strengthening economic, educational, and cultural ties between Florida and Canada. FCLI promotes international trade, facilitates student and faculty exchanges, supports cooperative research and technical assistance, encourages cultural programs, enhances language training, and administers the out-of-state tuition fee exemption program to foster academic collaboration.
Florida Eastern Europe Linkage Institute
Director: Mark Hartman
Type : Florida Legislature, State
The Florida Eastern Europe Linkage Institute (FEELI) works to strengthen economic, cultural, educational, and social connections between Florida and Eastern European countries. FEELI promotes expanded dialogue, cooperative research, technical assistance, increased bilateral commerce, student and faculty exchanges, cultural programs, and enhanced language training.
Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities
Director: Wilbur “Drew” Andrews
Type : Florida Legislature, State
The Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities (FCSUA) is the state’s coordinating center for inclusive postsecondary education. In partnership with universities, state colleges, and technical colleges, FCSUA supports high-quality programs that help students achieve greater independence and succeed in competitive, integrated employment.
Florida Space Institute (FSI)
Director: Julie Brisset
Type : Florida Legislature, State
The Florida Space Institute (FSI) supports space research, development, and education at UCF and partner institutions across Florida. FSI also helps advance Florida’s space economy by fostering collaboration in civil, defense, and commercial sectors.
Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC)
Director: James Fenton
Type : Florida Legislature, State
The Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) advances energy research and technology focused on solar power and energy efficiency. Through innovation, testing, and collaboration, FSEC supports Florida’s economy and environment while educating students, professionals, and the public about clean energy solutions.
Institute for Simulation & Training (IST)
Director: Carolina Cruz-Neira
Type:Florida Legislature, State
The School of Modeling, Simulation, and Training (SMST) and its internationally recognized Institute for Simulation and Training (IST) conduct cutting-edge interdisciplinary research in modeling, simulation, and training. Together, they educate future leaders through SMST’s graduate program and collaborate with public and private partners to develop innovative simulation applications addressing diverse societal and industry needs.
Institute for Social and Behavioral Sciences
Director: Amy Donley
Type:Florida Legislature, State
The Institute for Social and Behavioral Science (ISBS), founded in 1979, conducts community-centered research focused on public policy issues in Central Florida and beyond. Using diverse methods like focus groups, interviews, and statistical analysis, ISBS addresses social challenges such as health, crime, food insecurity, and homelessness. Our work advances the science that improves the lives of individuals, communities, and society.
Institute of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Science
Director: Matt Stock
Type: Florida Legislature, State
The Institute of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Science fosters and conducts high-impact research that advances exercise physiology and rehabilitation science. Supporting mechanistic and translational studies led by faculty and students across Kinesiology, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Training, the institute collaborates with partners in the College of Health Professions and Sciences and the Academic Health Sciences Center. With broad expertise and resources, we aim to be an internationally recognized leader driving innovation and advancing knowledge in these fields.
NanoScience Technology Center (NSTC)
Director: Lei Zhai
Type: University
The Nanoscience Technology Center (NSTC) is dedicated to establishing a cutting-edge research program in materials and nanotechnology, providing high-quality student training, and advancing innovations to solve real-world technology challenges. Our diverse faculty lead innovative research in areas such as green energy, bioimaging, assistive robotics, nanoelectronics, sustainable agriculture, and more.
NSTC’s efforts have made significant impacts on both nanotechnology society and industry, with faculty honored by prestigious awards like NSF CAREER, ONR YIP, and DARPA YIA. We foster a collaborative environment and interdisciplinary partnerships while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability, accessibility, and educational excellence.
National Center for Integrated Coastal Research
Director: Christopher Emrich
Type: Florida Legislature, State
The mission of the National Center for Integrated Coastal Research is to be the nation’s leading program in sustainable coastal systems. We bring together experts from biology, chemistry, engineering, social sciences, and policy to integrate scientific and social perspectives. Our goal is to support effective economic development, environmental stewardship, hazard mitigation, and public policy by linking coastal ecosystem health with the economic security of coastal communities.
National Center for Forensic Science
Director: Michael Sigman
Type:Florida Legislature, State
The National Center for Forensic Science (NCFS) provides relevant and responsive forensic science research, training, and operational support to communities relying on science to achieve justice. Our team of chemists, biochemists, physicists, and statisticians conduct both basic and applied research, working individually and collaboratively. NCFS also develops and maintains databases and offers continuing education to support the forensic community.
Resilient, Intelligent and Sustainable Energy Systems (RISES)
Director: Zhihua Qu
Type: Florida Legislature, State
RISES aims to be a premier research center focused on three technical areas: smart grid technologies for intelligence and resiliency; photovoltaic (PV) systems for sustainability; and building automation, energy storage, and connected communities for efficiency and integration.
Small Business Development Center
Director: Eunice Choi
Type: Florida Legislature, State
The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC), located in the National Entrepreneur Center in Orlando, offers training, seminars, and free counseling to small businesses across eight counties. With six sub-centers and support from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the SBDC helps businesses succeed and drives positive economic impact in the region.
Toni Jennings Exceptional Education Institute
Director: Matthew Marino
Type: Florida Legislature, State
The Toni Jennings Exceptional Education Institute (TJEEI) is dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults with disabilities by preparing and retaining exceptional educators. In collaboration with Central Florida partners, TJEEI connects families, UCF faculty and students, and educators to current information, resources, and opportunities, while developing research, products, and programs that support individuals with disabilities and their families.
UCF RESTORES
Director: Deborah Beidel
Type: Florida Legislature, State
UCF RESTORES is a multidisciplinary team of behavioral health professionals—including psychology, psychiatry, and social work—dedicated to transforming the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of PTSD. We use innovative approaches and technologies to provide evidence-based care for trauma and stress-related disorders while training the next generation to serve local and national communities.
UCF Center for Ethics
Director:Jonathan Beever
Type: University
The UCF Center for Ethics serves as a central resource promoting ethics and responsible conduct in research and relationships, fostering a culture of ethical literacy. By combining disciplinary strengths with ethics expertise, we address emerging ethical challenges impacting UCF, national partners, and the Central Florida community. Our research supports outreach to regional and national organizations to improve policies that ensure consistent and coherent ethical decision-making.
For more information about Centers and Institutes, please contact research@ucf.edu.