Creating Signature Centers at IUPUI: Request for Proposals
A signature center is a research unit distinctly identifiable with IUPUI. In addition to representing an area
of research strength, the center will usually build on some ongoing activities and have many of the following
attributes:
Signature Centers will often be interdisciplinary in character. They should have the capacity to attract
significant external funding as appropriate to the disciplines involved, including federal grants and
foundation support. The centers need to bring academic distinction to the campus. After initial campusbased
seed funding, they should become largely self-sufficient in a 3 to 5 year time frame.
The work of the center should be unique and distinctive, something which makes it stand out. It should
not focus on an area commonly studied at many other universities, although collaborations with other
institutions may be desirable.
The center should engage in work which takes advantage of the urban location in Indianapolis and
establish partnerships with local community and cultural organizations.
