Describes several National Science Foundation programs which encourage interaction between industries and universities. They include engineering research centers, Presidential Young Investigator Awards, and programs in the Industrial Science and Technology Innovation Division. Indicates that industry's pressing need for solutions often adds…

Although fundamentally different purposes may cause clashes when universities and industry embark on joint research and development ventures, careful planning can often bridge this gap. Areas addressed include university/industry cooperation, information exchange, intellectual property, and conflicts with colleagues/students. (DH)

Contains the text of an interview with the director of the Engineering Research Center (ERC) at the University of Delaware. Discusses interdisciplinary engineering research and its effects on traditional academic engineering. Describes the development and progress of the Delaware ERC, including eight recommendations for developing and operating…

Discusses the National Science Foundation's program to establish Engineering Research Centers (ERCs). States that this effort has provided a new impetus to interdisciplinary research efforts on university campuses. Claims that the concept of bringing together industry, academia, and government is necessary in addressing engineering research and…