We undertake research at the neural, behavioral and social level into how imagination occurs. We look to develop more effective ways of using imagination in education, technology, and learning, and enhance the application of imagination in confronting humanity’s problems.

The center organizes public programs, both on campus and with our growing network of global partners. We provide seed grants for research and creative projects, workshops and conferences, and give administrative and advisory support to faculty and affiliates to write grants on imagination related topics. The study and support for new forms speculative culture and science fiction is a large part of our center. Of particular note is The Clarion Science Fiction and Fantasy Workshop which we host at UCSD.