Tobacco use, seat belt observation, attitudes toward euthanasia and a survey of Japanese-affiliated manufacturers are a few of the recent studies conducted. A considerable number of the staff have national reputations, particularly in survey methodology. Conducting survey research in an academic environment heightens the challenge. Universities expect a lot from their survey centers. The Center also utilizes skilled research assistants, interviewers and coders.
Teamwork is crucial.
The competent staff and national reputation garner endless requests for assistance. The Center provides free consultations but must often turn away jobs. A trust of UMass Boston, the Center's services are available to the university on a contract basis. The Center's costs are covered by users of services and by agencies that fund independent research projects. Colten sees the Center's soft-money status as an asset to the university.