A primary function of the Center is to sustain a vigorous research program encompassing basic and applied projects related to improving safety and mobility for young people and older adults. The Center’s research program is focused upon three broad, societal thrusts:

• Understanding and addressing the changing perceptual, cognitive, and psychomotor abilities of older drivers to help them maintain safe driving
• Understanding and addressing the transportation needs of young people and older adults when they are unable or choose not to drive themselves
• Understanding and addressing the elevated crash risk of young drivers

Research Excellence Program
M-CASTL's Research Excellence Program is a peer-reviewed competitive research project funding program. Competitive proposals are requested by the M-CASTL that address pressing transportation problems within one or more of the three thrust areas. Specific research topics selected will take into account national transportation needs by addressing high priority areas identified by DOT. Proposals will be required to provide some matching funds for the project cost. Respondents will be required to build a “quad-team” for research projects that consists of faculty members from at least two different U-M units, students, and government/industrial/community representatives. The quad approach will ensure multidisciplinary research, student involvement in projects, and the translation of research results into practical transportation solutions.

     Year Three Research Projects
     Year Two Research Projects
     Year One Research Projects

     Click here for research project reporting and technology transfer requirements.
     Click here to view the most recent Request for Proposals (RFP).

Special Research Projects
This program is designed to allow M-CASTL to respond strategically to opportunities that arise for important collaborations, cost share/match activities, and/or research on cutting edge topics. Below are special projects which the Center is currently supporting. Click the link to learn about M-CASTL's ongoing special projects.