Developing and Sustaining Research Centers: Experiences from the Field

Research centers (RC) provide multiple opportunities to advance a field of inquiry by generating extramurally funded projects, disseminating research through traditional means (e.g., conferences and publications), and by translating research for practice. The foci of centers can be local, national, or global. RCs can foster intellectual synergy between investigators and collaboration within and between academic disciplines, impact local communities, and provide training opportunities for doctoral students and newer Ph.D.s.  Well-performing RCs can enhance the status of an academic unit within their own university and the academy in general.  It is likely that RCs will play an important role in the Grand Challenge initiative. Yet, developing and sustaining an effective RC requires thoughtful planning, specific infrastructure, and leadership. Strong community embeddedness or international ties through active Advisory Boards is critical to make the research relevant and participatory. This workshop will consist of a moderated panel of social work researchers who have developed and directed four RCs with a combined 35 years of experience.

During this 90 minute workshop, the panelists will discuss: 1) funding and sustainability models for RCs (e.g., NIH/federal, private foundations, mixed models); 2) common structural models for RCs (i.e., staffing, governance); 3) issues around collaboration; 4) skills needed to effectively direct RCs; and 5) community outreach and engagement. The panelists will first each briefly present the various RCs they have developed and directed. A moderated panel, with an ample question and discussion period, will follow these brief presentations.