FAQ
What is an IUCRC?
An Industry–University Cooperative Research Center (IUCRC) is an NSF-funded center that supports industry-relevant, pre-competitive research through long-term partnerships between universities, industry, and government agencies. IUCRCs pool member resources to support collaborative research, train the next generation of talent, and accelerate technology transfer.
What are the different membership levels and associated costs?
Industry members typically join as full members at a standard annual fee (for example, around $50,000 per year). Foundation and non-profit memberships may be available at a reduced rate. Exact levels and current rates are set by the Center and may change over time.
For the most up-to-date membership options and pricing, please contact the Center directly using the information at the bottom of this page.
How long should I plan on being a member of the Center?
Membership is renewed annually, but the Center is designed as a long-term partnership. Many projects span multiple years, and companies often remain members to follow their research portfolio, recruit students, and continue shaping the research roadmap.
If your organization plans to terminate membership, advance notice is requested so that existing commitments and projects can be managed responsibly.
Who are the current BRAIN Center members?
The Center includes university sites and a diverse set of industry partners from medical device companies, technology firms, hospitals, and other organizations interested in neurotechnology.
A current list of member organizations is maintained on our Membership page.
What are the membership benefits of the BRAIN Center?
- Voting rights to help select and steer pre-competitive research projects.
- Access to research results, data, and prototypes generated by Center projects.
- Opportunities to work closely with faculty, students, and other member organizations.
- Early visibility into emerging neurotechnology standards and regulatory science.
- Talent pipeline and recruiting opportunities for highly skilled students and trainees.
How does Intellectual Property work within the Center?
Universities retain the right to publish results in scientific and engineering venues after allowing sufficient time for invention disclosure and IP protection. Inventions arising from Center projects are disclosed through each university's technology transfer office.
BRAIN Center member companies may be eligible for nonexclusive, royalty-free licenses or, in some cases, to negotiate royalty-bearing exclusive licenses according to the Center's IP policies and the relevant university office of technology transfer.
More details are provided on the Intellectual Property page.
When is the best time to sign up for membership?
New members can typically join at any time during the year. However, it is helpful to join in advance of Industry Advisory Board (IAB) meetings so that your organization can participate in project reviews, voting, and planning for the next funding cycle.
When is the next Industry Advisory Board (IAB) meeting?
The BRAIN Center holds IAB meetings annually, with additional virtual check-ins as needed. Dates and locations vary by year.
For current IAB meeting information, please contact the Program Manager or refer to Center communications sent to member organizations.
How are research projects selected?
Faculty and investigators propose projects that align with the Center's mission. These proposals are presented to the Industry Advisory Board, which provides feedback, ranks projects, and votes on which projects to fund with Center resources.
Projects are evaluated on scientific merit, relevance to member needs, feasibility, and potential impact. Highly ranked projects are prioritized for funding, while other promising ideas may be refined and resubmitted in future cycles.
What are my responsibilities as an Industry Advisory Board (IAB) member?
- Participate in IAB meetings and provide feedback on project proposals and Center activities.
- Help identify industry needs, use cases, and standards-related challenges that can guide future research.
- Review project progress and outcomes, and provide input on continuation or redirection.
- Support technology transition, collaborations, and, when relevant, licensing or commercialization efforts.
How do I become a member?
To explore membership, please contact the Center leadership team. They can discuss membership levels, benefits, and the process for joining the IAB.
- Center Director (University of Houston): jlcontreras-vidal@uh.edu
- Program Management / Membership Inquiries: brain@uh.edu