Research Centers and Institutes

Center for Urban Studies

320 Urban Center

503-725-4045

www.pdx.edu/urban-studies-planning/

The Center for Urban Studies (CUS) at Portland State University facilitates, supports and promotes multidisciplinary research and community service by faculty and students at the Nohad A. Toulan School of Urban Studies and Planning on urban and regional systems, policies and issues, such as planning and growth management, community development, sustainability, energy, transportation, economic development, housing, equity and justice. CUS provides the infrastructure for our faculty and students to engage with communities, governments, organizations and institutions, and to highlight collaborative research and practice.

Institute of Portland Metropolitan Studies

320 Urban Center

503-725-4045

www.pdx.edu/metropolitan-studies

Founded in 1991, the PSU Institute of Portland Metropolitan Studies (IMS) serves as a “front door” to the Portland community through:

• Engagement: IMS helps community and regional partners connect with PSU faculty and students around issues related to urban and regional development in the Portland metropolitan region;
• Research: IMS supports engaged research that leverages PSU’s faculty expertise and resources around important issues facing the Portland metropolitan region; and 
• Convening: IMS convenes partners and stakeholders to promote dialogue around important policy and planning issues facing the Portland metropolitan region.

IMS receives funding support from the Oregon Legislature, and its purpose is established in ORS 352.703 to “build partnerships between Portland State University’s urban studies programs and the surrounding communities of metropolitan Portland and to sponsor public service research.”