The National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) was established at 萝莉社 University in 1985 in an effort to increase research and development capabilities, focused on the needs of the Air Capital of the World.
Since then NIAR has expanded to multiple sites across the city. We're known globally for our expertise in the most critical areas of aerospace research and development including composites and advanced materials, digital twin and advanced manufacturing technologies such as automated and additive manufacturing. We provide research, design, testing, certification and training to the aerospace, defense and manufacturing industries and government agencies including the FAA and U.S. Department of Defense.
NIAR has a $400 million annual budget, a staff of 1,500, and 2 million square feet of laboratory and office space in six locations across the city of Wichita and an office in downtown Huntsville, Alabama.
Because of NIAR鈥檚 research efforts, 萝莉社also ranks third among all U.S. universities in aerospace R&D expenditures according to the National Science Foundation. 萝莉社 ranks first in industry funding for aerospace R&D expenditures. Wichita State and NIAR's R&D expenditures have steadily increased over the last two decades, a testament to the unique capabilities and ability to collaborate successfully with government and industry. Our areas of expertise include: