Additional Centers and Research Groups

Biomechanics Research Laboratory
Located in Learned Hall, the Biomechanics Research Laboratory is an affiliation of four biomechanical research thrusts: the Experimental Joint Biomechanics Research Laboratory, the Biodynamics Research Laboratory, the Orthopedic Tissue Mechanics Research lab and the Human Motion Control Laboratory. Offices and laboratories are located in Learned Hall.

Garrison Flight Test Center/KU Hangar
Located at the Lawrence Municipal Airport, north of Lawrence, the 18,000 square-foot hangar offers recently renovated laboratory and office space for aerospace engineering faculty, as well as classrooms and meeting and collaboration rooms for graduate students and undergraduates. The facility, named for Walt Garrison, who earned both a bachelor's and master's in aerospace in 1947 and 1948, also offers design and construction space for student projects. Faculty, students and staff conduct research in computational fluid dynamics, fluid physics and turbulence, applied aerodynamics, aero-acoustics, structural mechanics and materials, flight dynamics, and flight-testing.

Infrastructure Research Institute
The Infrastructure Research Institute performs research and develops methods, structures and products to enhance infrastructure around the world. Research areas include structural engineering and materials, architectural engineering, water resources, transportation and geotechnical engineering. The IRI is led by David Darwin, Deane E. Ackers distinguished professor of civil, environmental and architectural engineering. Its office is at 2142C Learned Hall.

Intelligent Systems & Automation Lab
The Intelligent Systems and Automation laboratory encompasses programs and projects involved with the application of microprocessors and sensors to advanced electromechanical systems. Major programs in computer integrated manufacturing, industrial innovation and augmented telerobotics are in progress. All involve technology transfer to regional industry through cooperative efforts involving personnel, financial resources and expertise from the laboratory, industry and government. ISA is a part of the Mechanical Engineering Department located in Learned Hall.

Kurata Thermodynamics Laboratories
This 5,000 square-foot lab is named for Fred Kurata, a professor of chemical and petroleum engineering 1947 to 1978 who held two distinguished professorships and was a leader in thermodynamics research. It houses experimental and analytical labs, safety areas, computer and conference areas, a library and mechanical areas. The lab is at 2330 Crowell Drive, on KU's West Campus.

Tertiary Oil Recovery Program
The Tertiary Oil Recovery Program (TORP) was established in 1974 by the State of Kansas to acquaint Kansas petroleum producers with the technical and economic potential of enhanced recovery methods for Kansas oil and gas fields. TORP, which is headquartered at 4146 Learned Hall, conducts research and development of processes that are applicable to Kansas reservoirs. The center also investigates the application of reservoir engineering and geology for characterization of Kansas reservoirs. The project is directed by Jenn-Tai Liang professor of chemical and petroleum engineering.