Through research and scholarly activities, the faculty and staff of Western Michigan University's College of Engineering and Applied Sciences are committed to advancing knowledge in the areas of engineering and supporting the WMU gold standard of being a discovery-driven institution. Many of our faculty members are active researchers, and their research, scholarly activities and service make a significant contribution to their engineering disciplines and to their teaching.
We continue to strengthen our traditional connection with industry, conducting applied research including both graduate and undergraduate students as research assistants through our many research centers and laboratories. At the same time, faculty have increased their emphasis on both fundamental research and on engineering education, focusing on diverse topics.
Economic impact in Michigan
Focusing on design and innovation, our research impacts industry and education throughout Michigan. Many businesses turn to us for solutions in our many areas of expertise.
Research centers and INSTItutes
- Center for Advanced Smart Sensors and Structures
- Center for Advanced Vehicle Design and Simulation
- Center for Advancement of Printed Electronics
- Center for High Performance Computing and Big Data
- Center for Integrated Design
- Center for Manufacturing Research
- Center for Printing and Coating Research
- Center of Excellence in Engineering Education
- Georgeau Construction Research Institute
- Human Performance Institute
- Transportation Research Center for Livable Communities
Research Laboratories
- Advanced Fatigue and Fracture
- Alternative Fuel Research
- Automotive Systems
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Biosystems, Renewable Bioproducts and Environmental Sustainability Research Laboratory
- Biotechnology and Bioprocessing Laboratory
- Computer Controlled Manufacturing
- Dimensional Metrology
- Engineering Management Research Lab
- Fabrication and Assembly
- Fuel Cell
- Machining
- Metal Casting
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Molecular Beam Epitaxy Laboratory
- Noise and Vibration
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Parallel Computing and Data Science Laboratory (joint with Computer Science)
- Parker-Hannifin Motion and Control Laboratory
- Plasma Experiments
- Plastics Processing
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Sensor Technology Laboratory
- Smart and Advanced Material
- Thermoelectrics
- Vehicle Design Laboratory
- Virtual Materials Science