To a lesser extent, a few HBCUs have launched independent applied science and engineering centers apart from the federal agency start-ups. These federal laboratories largely have addressed basic science research issues, while independent centers have tended to focus on applied technology research. Bota adds that the federally-sponsored centers are more numerous than the institution-launched technology labs at HBCUs.
Nonetheless, the science and technology research centers have invigorated the research agenda of HBCUs, enabling some schools to attract top-notch faculty members. He is optimistic that science research will continue to expand on HBCU campuses, and will do so largely through the research center.
"It's impossible to have a first class university without the research," Bota says. "Without an organized program of research, an institution really cannot achieve growth. There's only so much you can do in terms of teaching. Research and development represents growth areas for institutions."
Walters adds that the commitment to creating campus research centers has to come from the senior administration and faculty.
"Leaders of HBCUs have to make sure there's central administrative support for research," he says.
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