The purpose of the Science and Engineering Research Institute is to make practical technical application of the basic scientific research conducted by the School of Science and Engineering. To this end, the Institute publishes the academic research of the School of Science and Engineering and the Graduate School of Engineering, develops the results of this research along specific practical and technical lines jointly with national and public organizations and private companies, and thus contributes to both technological progress and the development of Japanese industry.

Through these activities, the Center receives feedback from society at large, which can be used to fine-tune research efforts and is reflected in the Center's ongoing research and educational activities. The Center has also developed a successful guest researcher program, the goal of which is to bring the know-how of the world's foremost scientists and engineers to bear on the training of the scientists and engineers who will be the leaders of future technological innovation, and thus contribute to the advancement of industrial technology.