Research and Projects

The Natural Hazards Center's core program activities consist of the Information Program, Research Program,and the Quick Response Program.

Information Dissemination Program -The Center's library, annual workshop, and ongoing publications, listservs, and awards are all part of our information dissemination program, which is designed to foster information sharing and communication among researchers, practitioners, and policy makers from around the world. As past of the information program, the Center also engages in a number of special projects that work to support and enhance our core mission. These types of projects are often supported by independent sources of funding and with established partners.

Research Program - Faculty and staff also engage in separately funded research projects that are consistent with the Center's mission and complement information dissemination and program activities. Research activities allow students associated with the Center to receive hands-on research training on multidisciplinary projects and provide valuable information for practitioners and policy makers across the hazards lifecycle. The Center currently participates in three large-scale research initiatives, Responding to Crises and Unexpected Events (RESCUE), the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START), and the Bay Area Preparedness Initative (BayPrep).

Quick Response Program - With funds contributed by the National Science Foundation, the Natural Hazards Center Quick Response program offers social scientists small grants to travel to the site of a disaster soon after it occurs to gather valuable information concerning immediate impact and response. The findings of these studies cover a broad range of disasters - both natural and human-caused - in diverse segments affecting all types of human communities.