CITRIS and the Banatao Institute
Research ServicesCalifornia, United States51-200 Employees
CITRIS and the Banatao Institute is a research organization focused on developing information technology solutions for societal challenges. Rooted in the University of California system, it collaborates across Berkeley, Davis, Merced, and Santa Cruz to accelerate the transition from laboratory research to practical applications, platforms, and new ventures. The institute supports interdisciplinary work among faculty, students, corporate partners, and international institutions, fostering an ecosystem that spans concept to prototype. Its activities include seed funding, specialized testbeds, a nanofabrication facility, invention labs, and a startup accelerator, all aimed at translating research into tangible benefits for society. Based in Berkeley, California, the organization addresses issues such as sustainable energy, water and transportation systems, robotics, healthcare delivery, and tech policy, while promoting diverse perspectives and the future of work in an automated economy. It emphasizes collaboration within the broader Silicon Valley ecosystem and public-private partnerships to shape the development of technology and its societal impact. The description notes ongoing engagement with multiple UC campuses and a wide network to advance interdisciplinary solutions through its invention ecosystem and partnerships.