Center for Research in Open Source Software CROSS

The Center for Research in Open Source Software (CROSS) is a research center located in Santa Cruz, California. As part of the Baskin School of Engineering at the University of California, Santa Cruz, CROSS employs 20 to 49 individuals and generates annual revenue exceeding $10,000. CROSS focuses on developing open source leaders by integrating open source software strategies with graduate-level research. They cultivate an environment that fosters mentorship and interaction with prominent figures in industry, academia, and the open source community. Through successful open source projects, CROSS transfers cutting-edge technology developed by student researchers to the industry. A key aspect of CROSS's approach is its collaboration with industry partners. Their strategic location near Silicon Valley enables them to connect UCSC's leading researchers with experts from renowned tech companies, startups, and top open source contributors. This collaborative network allows CROSS to select projects that have the potential for maximum impact and success. For instance, industry members are currently working alongside students and faculty on the development of fabric-connected, "eusocial" storage devices. These devices will be designed to communicate and collaborate, providing collective functionality while remaining resource-efficient. The open source prototypes emerging from this project are expected to serve as blueprints for future industry standards. For those interested in partnering with CROSS, contact information is available on their website: cross.ucsc.edu.