Translational Accelerator Bridges Research and Industry

Program advances applied research, business engagement, + regional impact

Central Michigan University Research Corporation (CMURC) and Central Michigan University (CMU) have announced the launch of the Translational Accelerator, a new initiative focused on connecting facultyled research with industry, workforce development, and regional economic impact.

Federal research funding is shifting, limiting hands-on opportunities for students and faculty. By partnering with business leaders, CMU is bridging this gap—providing experiential learning opportunities while creating a new revenue stream through service contracts. These scoped partnerships go beyond traditional internships or senior projects, offering students working in faculty labs real-world, problem-solving experience that prepares them for success.

“This initiative creates opportunities for researchers and businesses to work together on real-world challenges,” said President + CEO of CMURC Erin Strang. “By aligning academic capabilities with industry needs, we’re not only driving strategic research but also delivering real economic value to our region and preparing students for high-impact careers.”

The Translational Accelerator advances multiple strategic priorities, including translational research, student workforce readiness, and industry engagement. CMURC’s role focuses on developing industry partnerships, accelerating commercialization, supporting mutual learning and strategic alignment, and contributing to economic development across the region.

The initiative is the result of a coordinated effort by an interdisciplinary Action Team made up of leaders from across CMU - including Government Relations, University Transformation Office, Innovation and Online, Office of General Counsel, and CMURC board members.

At the heart of the initiative are the CMU Innovation Ambassadors, a cross-disciplinary cohort of faculty from six CMU colleges. The team is led by Dr. Anthony Chappaz, who has received a special appointment to lead the charge and will serve as Chief Scientific Officer for CMURC. Their mission is to embed entrepreneurial thinking within research, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, and raise awareness that CMU researchers’ expertise is highly valuable to industry partners.

“Central Michigan University is committed to reimagining what public research institutions can do for society,” said CMU President Neil MacKinnon. “The Translational Accelerator strengthens our mission by creating more hands-on learning opportunities for students, supporting our faculty in their innovative pursuits, and ensuring that CMU research continues to make an impact well beyond campus.”

The Translational Accelerator builds a culture of innovation at CMU by aligning research with industry needs, expanding real-world learning for students, and driving regional economic growth. It lays the foundation for the Central Ecosystem for National Security (CENS), preparing students for critical roles in the future workforce. Learn more or get involved at cmurc.com/cens.