UT researchers are advancing next-generation capabilities and readiness needed to ensure our national security. The outcomes of defense research can lead to technological advancements, enhanced military capacity and innovations that have both civilian and military applications in healthcare, disaster relief, cybersecurity, infrastructure, transportation and peacekeeping policy.
The Office of the Vice President for Research, Scholarship and Creative Endeavors has a dedicated staff who engage with campus researchers and the defense innovation ecosystem to advance scientific discovery for the unique requirements of the Department of Defense.
Through key partnerships and collaborations, many of these contributions have a direct and positive impact for those who protect our country through their military service.
Applied Research Laboratories
Applied Research Laboratories, The University of Texas at Austin (ARL:UT) is a Department of Defense (DoD) University-Affiliated Research Center and the largest organized research unit within the Office of the Vice President for Research, Scholarship and Creative Endeavors portfolio.
ARL:UT advances UT Austin’s mission of education, research and public service. Through fundamental research, innovative science and applied engineering, ARL:UT makes significant contributions in support of national security.
An integral part of the top-tier research University, ARL:UT builds upon a 78-year history of world-class research and expertise for the DoD and other sponsors supporting their critical and ongoing quest to maintain the technological advantage that is critical to our nation. ARL:UT’s top-quality research staff with deep technical expertise provides multi-disciplinary research and unbiased guidance to the government and tackles complex and challenging problems. Its strong commitment to student employment and programs provides support to the next generation of scientists and engineers and helps to shape the future of defense research.
Additional Defense Research Initiatives
Other centers and institutes at UT also work to advance policies, research and technology to improve national security. Those include:
Center for Electromechanics
The Center for Electromechanics (CEM) performs basic and applied research in electrical and mechanical engineering, with an emphasis on technology and prototype development in: (1) electromechanical devices and systems with high specific power, force, and/or energy storage or other unique capabilities, (2) grid / microgrid solutions with system monitoring and fault detection attributes, and (3) hydrogen energy systems from production to end use applications.
As part of the Cockrell School of Engineering, the center is at the forefront of applying fundamental knowledge to novel application areas, providing capabilities in defense, biotechnology, power systems, space and transportation. Imbedded in this mission is training undergraduate and graduate students to become leaders in their fields as they work with CEM researchers to advance and test of new technologies.
Clements Center for National Security
The William P. Clements, Jr. Center for National Security at The University of Texas at Austin draws on the best insights of diplomatic and military history to train the next generation of national security leaders. Established in 2013 with the support of distinguished policymakers and scholars, the Clements Center is a nonpartisan research and policy center uniquely positioned in the Office of the President.
The Clements Center honors former Texas Governor Bill Clements and his leadership on national security during his service as Deputy Secretary of Defense from 1973-77. Governor Clements managed the Pentagon and helped guide American national security policy during a critical time. He brought a deep appreciation for history to every aspect of his leadership, policies and decision-making.
Oden Institute for Computational Science
The Oden Institute for Computational Science provides an inclusive interdisciplinary environment that enables outstanding research, fosters high-impact collaborations and advances graduate education in the field of computational science and engineering.
Strauss Center for International Security and Law
The Robert Strauss Center for International Security and Law integrates expertise from across UT Austin, as well as from the private and public sectors, in pursuit of practical solutions to emerging international challenges. The Center sponsors a wide array of research programs and educational initiatives, including nationally recognized programs on National Security Law, Cybersecurity, Technology and Global Affairs, the U.S.-Mexico Border, U.S. policy toward Asia and Space Policy. The Strauss Center also offers numerous fellowship and scholarship programs for UT-Austin students with an interest in international security.
The Strauss Center – Applied Research Laboratories Joint Studies Program
The Strauss Center-Applied Research Laboratories Joint Studies Program is a multidisciplinary program that applies research in law, political science, engineering and the natural sciences to problems in national security, defense and public service.
To advance the Strauss Center and ARL:UT’s mission in public service, the Joint Studies Program provides hands-on research opportunities, fellowships and mentorship for undergraduate and graduate students. It supports collaborations between researchers, building bridges between disciplines, and it serves as a repository of knowledge focused on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and risks presented by emerging technologies in order to guide their applications.
Texas Advanced Computing Center
The Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) designs and operates some of the world's most powerful computing resources. The center's mission is to enable discoveries that advance science and society through the application of advanced computing technologies.
Texas Advanced Computing Center
