Applied Research Laboratories is a University Affiliated Research Center operating under a Department of Defense management plan with oversight by the Naval Sea Systems Command. Applied Research Laboratories makes significant contributions in support of national security through fundamental research, innovative science, and applied engineering.

The Center for Electromechanics performs leading-edge basic and applied research in electrical and mechanical engineering, with a special emphasis on applied engineering leading to prototype development in electromechanical devices and systems with high specific power, force, and/or energy storage or other unique attributes. This is accomplished through sponsored applied research and internships, laboratory space, prototype fabrication, and leveraging a breadth of engineering expertise.