The Imaging Research Center (IRC) is dedicated to investigating new technologies and their use for interpreting and presenting content. Since its inception in 1987, artists and researchers across disciplines have collaborated in the IRC's creative environment to develop new strategies and techniques in digital media. State-of-the-art facilities enable research in 3D visualization, immersive technologies, interactivity, installation, animation, high definition video, and sound.

In conjunction with UMBC's Department of Visual Arts, the IRC has developed successful academic programs that incorporate undergraduate and graduate students into professional research activities. These students receive valuable experience with contemporary digital art technologies while working as partners with researchers, artists, scholars, and industry specialists to create large-scale, high profile works.

Maryland Public Television's 8 minute documentary on the IRC. Video