CSU Affinity Groups (Multi-Campus Collaborations)
The CSU supports systemwide research through ten Multi-Campus Collaborations (Affinity Groups). These initiatives connect faculty across campuses, support interdisciplinary research, and provide funding opportunities for projects, student involvement, and workforce development.
Explore the Affinity Groups below, or visit the for full program details and current funding opportunities.
- Agricultural Research Institute (ARI)
Supports applied research in agriculture, natural resources, and food systems. Faculty can apply for competitive grants and build partnerships with industry and community organizations.
- CSU Climate Adaptation Consortium (CSU ADAPT)
Focuses on climate resilience, adaptation strategies, and community impacts. Opportunities include seed funding, interdisciplinary collaboration, and policy-relevant research.
- Council on Ocean Affairs, Science & Technology (COAST)
Advances marine, coastal, and watershed research and education. Offers grants, student support, and connections to state and federal partners.
- CSU Program for Education and Research in Biotechnology (CSUPERB)
Builds biotechnology research and workforce pathways. Provides research grants, student internships, and industry engagement opportunities.
- Water Resources and Policy Initiatives (WRPI)
Addresses California’s water challenges through research and policy. Supports faculty-led projects, student training, and applied policy work.
- Desert Studies Consortium (DSC)
Promotes research and field-based learning in desert environments. Faculty can access field stations, develop courses, and collaborate on environmental research.
- Energy Research and Education Initiatives
Supports innovation in clean energy and sustainability. Opportunities include research funding, workforce development, and partnerships with industry and government.
- Agricultural and Natural Resources Initiatives
Focuses on sustainability, conservation, and resource management. Faculty can engage in applied research and cross-campus collaborations.
- STEM and Workforce Development Initiatives
Expands pathways into STEM careers and education. Supports curriculum development, student training, and collaborative grant opportunities.
- Systemwide Research and Innovation Initiatives
Advances emerging, cross-campus research priorities. Faculty can participate in new initiatives and pilot funding opportunities aligned with statewide needs.
California Alliance for Hispanic-Serving Social Science Advancement (CAHSSA)
The is a collaboration between the CSU and UC systems that supports social science research aligned with the Hispanic-serving mission of California’s higher education institutions.
CAHSSA offers faculty development and research support opportunities, including , resources to , and .