Complex societal challenges require a multi-dimensional approach.
And that’s why many of our research centres and institutes cross traditional boundaries and disciplines. They allow us to advance basic research, increase our capacity to compete globally and bring our researchers and students together to apply cutting-edge methods to impact their respective fields of study. And our facilities and platforms – whether they stand-alone or are housed within one of our 60-plus centres and institutes – are pivotal to our research infrastructure; providing the requisite equipment and resources to enhance our ground-breaking research and to keep our industry partners competitive.
Annual Aggregated Report 2023
Hubs of innovation and discovery
McMaster’s research centres and institutes (RCIs) are instrumental in addressing critical societal challenges, pooling resources, and maximizing both impact and output.
What are Research Centres, Institutes and Core Platforms?
McMaster’s research centres, institutes and core platforms bring researchers together to solve complex problems. Research centres and institutes that house significant research infrastructure may also be core research platforms, though core research platforms may stand alone.
Research Institutes support the strategic interest of the University or a Faculty. Designation as an Institute is determined by one or more criteria which may include: comparative size, breadth of research, and the national and international impact of their work.
Research Centres, like Institutes, support the strategic interests of the University. Designation as a Centre is determined by their focus, which may be less broad.
Core Research Platforms contain the University’s specialized equipment and/or technical expertise essential for advancing basic research and competing on the world’s research stage. They foster and facilitate interdisciplinary research, provide opportunities for new research, and ensure the development and sustainability of equipment and facilities.
Facts & Figures 2023-24
Fostering interdisciplinary research
Across campus, our platforms provide our researchers with the cutting-edge methods and tools required to impact their fields of research.
Information Box Group
Research Centres & Institutes Full RCIs List
Search McMaster’s research centres and institutes.
Core Research Platforms Full CRPs List
Search McMaster’s core research platforms.
Resources for Researchers Browse Resources
Find policies and guidelines for establishing a research centre, institute or core platform.
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