The KU Center for Research, Inc. (KUCR) is a not-for-profit research foundation that operates for the benefit of the university under the administrative jurisdiction of the KU office of Research and Graduate Studies (RGS). KUCR was incorporated in 1962 to develop and administer sponsored programs in engineering and related interdisciplinary areas at KU. Effective July 1, 1997, KUCR's services expanded to encompass all sponsored programs conducted throughout the Lawrence campus.

KUCR is the entity responsible for submitting all proposals for external support of research, instructional and service projects. In addition, KUCR helps research investigators by negotiating contracts, providing proposal and post-award services, administering compliance oversight, managing and constructing research facilities, and handling financial services, including investment of corporation resources.

KUCR is governed by a Board of Trustees that includes university and public members. The elected officers of the Board are KU administrators. The Vice Provost of Research and Graduate Studies (RGS) serves as the President and Chief Operating Officer of KUCR. An Executive Committee meets quarterly and, in the absence of the trustees, has oversight of the budget and general operation of the corporation.  A Finance and Audit Committee meets quarterly to review the investments and operations of the corporation and reports to the Executive Committee.

NCURA Review Final Report (pdf)

At the request of Steve Warren, vice provost for research and graduate studies, the National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA) conducted an evaluation in 2009 of KUCR's research administration processes. The evaluation included a peer review team site visit and employed national standards to assess the effectiveness of the sponsored programs operation. KUCR is using recommendations and insights contained in the final report (above) to make changes and improve service to the KU research community.

Web Site Changes

Many of the previous KUCR web pages are now housed on the Research and Graduate Studies (RGS) web site. If you are having problems finding something due to bookmarks no longer directing you to the proper location, please check the RGS site, contact a specific department (links on the left), or find contact information for specific individuals on our staff directory pages.