The Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) at the University of Colorado, The Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal Materoals Reserach Center, focuses on basic liquid crystal and soft materials science that may result in enhanced capabilities for electro-optic, nonlinear optic, chemical and other applications. The Center consists of a single interdisciplinary research group (IRG) working on three major themes: molecularstructure/macroscopic properties, interfaces, and polymers/gels. Each theme integrates molecular modeling and design, synthesis, physical characterization, and applications development. The MRSEC maintains shared facilities in support of its research and for the training of students. The Center carries out a comprehensive education and outreach program that includes outreach to K-12 students and teachers by bringing materials topics to the classroom, summer research experiences for undergraduates, and a graduate program in liquid crystal science and technology. The MRSEC has strong interactions with the industrial sector through research collaborations involving faculty and students.

Participants in the Center currently include 9 senior investigators, 1 postdoctoral associate, 12 graduate students, and 4 support personnel. Professor Noel A. Clark directs the MRSEC.