The Minority Research Centers of Excellence (MRCE) program was established in FY 1987 to provide substantial resources to upgrade the research capabilities of the strongest and most productive predominantly minority institutions. This planning grant project lays the foundation for a plan that will increase the institution's quality of research and research-related training. Specifically, support for this project will permit the establishment of an MRCE advisory committee of scientists and engineers, local leaders, and industrial representatives who will assist the institution in evaluating its current and future potential for performing meritorious research during the next five years. Hampton University will conduct an assessment and evaluation of strengths and weaknesses of basic science and engineering disciplines in the School of Pure and Applied Sciences. In addition, collaborative relationships with Federal laboratories and corporate organizations will be explored. Hampton University has the facilities and personnel to develop a Minority Research Center of Excellence. The Foundation has supported this project because the proposed work will lead to meritorious research in the pure and applied sciences and will increase the participation of minorities in science and engineering.
