The Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) at the University of California - San Diego undertakes research related to the performance of magnetic recording materials. The research program is organized through a single interdisciplinary research group. The research group is focused on the experimental and theoretical analysis of hysteresis, dynamics, and spin transport in magnetic particles and thin films. The goal of the group is to provide a quantitative microscopic description of the phenomena underlying the observed macroscopic hysteresis properties of these magnetic systems. The MRSEC is closely associated with the Center for Magnetic Recording Materials (CMRM), which is fully funded by industry. In addition the MRSEC will support a broad range of interactions and collaboration with industry and an expanded range of educational outreach programs. The MRSEC currently supports 11 senior investigators, 4 postdoctoral research associates, 2 technical staff members, 11 graduate students, and 5 undergraduates. The MRSEC is co-directed by Professors Ami E. Berkowitz and Sheldon Schultz.