Networks
Our research networks and coalitions foster interdisciplinary scholarly activities. Composed of faculty from the UNCG community whose scholarship and teaching reflect a core theme, these networks capitalize on and leverage the University’s strengths by coordinating and facilitating collaborations and enhancing research and teaching.
The UNCG Atlantic World Research Network (AWRN) fosters campus-wide interdisciplinary research, teaching, and creative work that reflects on the peoples, cultures, and ecologies of the “Atlantic Rim”—Africa, Europe, and the Americas. The Network provides leadership in transatlantic studies not only at UNCG and around our region, but around the Atlantic Rim and around the world. With partners from Britain, Spain and Brazil to Italy, France and Denmark, to the Folger Institute on Capitol Hill and the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, Virginia, this far-flung interdisciplinary network embraces Atlantic World work in the Humanities, Arts, Sciences, and Social Sciences.
The Child & Family Research Network (CFRN) at UNC Greensboro is a collaborative, interdisciplinary initiative dedicated to enhancing the well-being of children and families through innovative research and community engagement. CFRN fosters a vibrant scholarly community by connecting faculty across departments, supporting their development through fellowships and grants, and promoting equity-centered research that addresses systemic disparities affecting youth and families. The network emphasizes building collaborative teams that leverage diverse expertise to tackle complex social issues, ensuring that research efforts are inclusive and impactful. By centering equity and justice, CFRN aims to produce research that not only advances academic knowledge but also contributes to meaningful societal change.
The Gerontology Research, Outreach, Workforce (Development), and Teaching Hub (GROWTH) at UNC Greensboro is an interdisciplinary initiative dedicated to advancing research, teaching, and community engagement centered on aging and older adults. GROWTH brings together faculty, students, alumni, and community partners to foster collaborative efforts that address the multifaceted aspects of aging. Through events like Lunch & Learns, networking receptions, and educational seminars, the hub promotes knowledge sharing and professional development. Faculty affiliates from diverse disciplines, including nursing, kinesiology, library sciences, and gerontology, contribute their expertise to support students and drive impactful research. By emphasizing community engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration, GROWTH aims to enhance the quality of life for older adults and inform policies and practices related to aging.
The Humanities Network and Consortium (HNAC) at UNC Greensboro is a collaborative initiative that unites scholars across disciplines to promote faculty research and engage the broader public. HNAC values shared histories, enduring questions, and future ventures, emphasizing the role of the humanities in understanding our past, shaping our future, and fostering community. Through initiatives like the Community Placemaking Action Lab, Humanities @ Work, and the Liberal Arts Advantage, HNAC facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration, supports humanities-based scholarly work, and connects academic pursuits with community engagement. By amplifying the interconnectivity of humanities stakeholders, HNAC aims to enrich both the university and the wider community.
The Videogaming and Esports Studies Network (VESN) at UNC Greensboro brings together scholars, students, and community partners to explore the cultural and academic impact of video games and esports. Through interdisciplinary research, curriculum development, and events like speaker series and conferences, VESN fosters critical dialogue about gaming. The network also supports hands-on initiatives like the Game Music & Sound Design Collaborative and offers a minor in Videogaming and Esports Studies, preparing students for careers in the gaming industry.
The RISE Network (Research & Instruction in STEM Education) at UNC Greensboro is a collaborative initiative that unites educators, researchers, and community partners to enhance STEM education across disciplines. Established in 2010, RISE fosters interdisciplinary collaboration through research opportunities, funding access, and events like workshops and speaker series. Notable programs include the annual “Science Everywhere” festival, which engages the public in interactive STEM activities, and the RISE Network Speaker Series, featuring experts discussing topics like sustainability and equity in STEM. By promoting partnerships and providing resources, RISE aims to strengthen STEM education and research within the university and the broader community.
Core Facilities
Gateway University Research Park
UNC Greensboro partnered with NC A&T to develop the Gateway University Research Park, which provides world-class laboratories and office space to businesses, universities, and the local community. In this uniquely collaborative environment, tenants and partners utilize shared resources for technological progress, including a T3 MRI, the largest electron microscope in the Southeast, and a state-of-the-art materials testing center. The campus also provides support in turning intellectual property into thriving businesses in areas of life and physical science, engineering, and other applied sciences.
Gateway houses several ventures led or co-led by UNC Greensboro:
- Gateway UNCG MRI Center for Functional and Molecular Imaging: At the center, imaging scientists collaborate across disciplines to develop new approaches for examining anatomical and functional connectivity in neural circuits and to explore emerging frontiers in neural engineering.
- Joint School for Nanoscience and Nanoengineering: The JSNN is an academic collaboration between UNC Greensboro and NC A&T, that offers innovative, cross-disciplinary graduate programs and research opportunities in nano-bioscience, nanometrology, nanomaterials, nanobioelectronics, nano-energy, and computational nanotechnology.
- SERVE Center: UNC Greensboro’s education research, evaluation, and technical assistance center works with educators and policymakers at the local, state, and national levels.
North Carolina Research Campus
UNCG is a member of the North Carolina Research Campus, a public-private partnership forged by corporations, universities, and healthcare organizations to transform science at the intersection of human health, nutrition, and agriculture. At the 350-acre campus just north of Charlotte, researchers in UNC Greensboro’s Center for Translational Biomedical Research are developing new approaches to the prevention and treatment of illnesses such as diabetes and fatty liver disease.
Technology and Data Institute
UNCG is part of the Technology and Digital Institute, which is committed to transforming the Piedmont Triad into a smart and connected region where communities and innovation will flourish through shared technology and data. TDI is a regional public service institute leading a collaborative effort to ensure that everyone — scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs, communities, and K-12 students in underserved areas — has the digital infrastructure needed to thrive.
