Sponsored by The National Science Foundation, the Engineering Research Centers (ERCs) conduct engineered systems-focused interdisciplinary research, linking universities across the United States with industry. The collaborative project exposes "prospective students (both graduate and undergraduate) to industrial views in order to build competence in engineering practice and to produce engineering graduates with the depth and breadth of education needed for success in technological innovation and for effective leadership of interdisciplinary teams throughout their careers." Current centers cover a range of topics including: Microelectronic Systems and Information Technology, Earthquake Engineering, Design and Manufacturing, and Bioengineering. Visitors can read more about the work of the Centers from the extensive Achievements Showcase, or about the ERC concept through a Best Practices Manual on developing a similar university-industry partnership. Curricula developed for graduate and undergraduate instruction, and information on other education programs are also available online.