Research Facilities

SIRDC operates its cluster system using 12 institutes as research facilities, each with a unique mandate and focus area - all feeding into the relevant clusters to enhance their R & D activities.

Biotechnology Research Institute (BRI)

BRI is under the Agriculture Cluster and is a centre of excellence in the application of biotechnology techniques and processes to enhance performance in agriculture, medicine and bioprocess industries. The institute draws its strength from an intimate knowledge of genetics, microbiology, cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, animal cell culture, embryology and chemical/process engineering.

Building Technology Institute (BTI)

BTI is under the Built Environment & Transportation Systems Cluster and is the focal point for Research and Development activities in Building Science and Technology, as well as Technology Transfer and Consultancy Services in the areas of design, building materials, housing, planning, construction engineering and related activities. BTI encompasses the whole technology spectrum of the built environment.

Electronics & Communications Institute (ECI)

ECI is under the Energy & Power Cluster and was established to carry out research and development in the two rapidly advancing fields of electronics and communications and to provide consultancy and industrial support services to the local manufacturing and technology industries. It is involved in the design and development of world-class original products as part of import substitution.

Energy Technology Institute (ETI)

ETI is under the Energy & Power Cluster and it provides technological solutions and services in the energy field to public and private institutions in Zimbabwe. It strives to continually establish and maintain close and permanent partnership with industry and all stakeholders in areas of mutual benefit related to collaborative research, development of new products, provision of expert technical services and training in the energy field.

Environmental Science Institute (ESI)

ESI is under the Water and Environment Cluster and is a national institute set up to provide technological services to national and regional stakeholders in order to enhance environmental performance of industrial products and services at local and international markets.

Food & Biomedical Technology Institute

The Food and Biomedical Technology Institute (FBTI) is under the Health Cluster and carries out research and development (R & D) in the areas of Food Technology, Industrial Biotechnology and Applied Chemistry.

Geo-Info & Remote Sensing Institute (GRSI)

The goal of GRSI is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable environmental resource utilization in Zimbabwe and the region. Its objective is to provide spatial data analysis solutions that would result in the management of the environment and natural resources in a more sustainable manner than would be possible without considering the spatial aspect. It is under the Water and Environment Cluster.

Informatics & Artificial Intelligence Institute (IAI)

IAI, one of the twelve research institutes, utilizes systematic processes to provide consultancy services and training aimed at generating advanced and powerful knowledge in the areas of information, software engineering, multimedia systems, web site design and computer repair and maintenance. In addition, the institute offers a variety of services and training in the above-mentioned areas. It is under the Information & Communication Technology Cluster.

Metallurgical Research Institute (MRI)

MRI is under the Mining & Mineral Beneficiation Cluster and it undertakes research and development in mining, metallurgical, materials, foundry and other forming technologies, and to develop and commercialize a portfolio of bankable projects in the specialized area of metallurgy.

National Metrology Institute (NMI)

In line with its mandate and being the Custodian of National Measurement Standards, NMI, through high quality and traceable metrology services, supports competitiveness of Zimbabwean industrial products and services, fairness in trade, consumer protection, health and safety of human and animal life and protection of the environment. The institute provides traceable measurements and calibration services to private as well as public sectors of the economy. These services enable industries to compete on the global markets as well as meet statutory and contractual obligations. It is under the Industry and Manufacturing Cluster.

Polymer & Material Science Institute (PMSI)

Production Engineering Institute (PEI)

PEI, under the Industry and Manufacturing Cluster, is a centre of excellence in Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing, Electrical, and Chemical Engineering, driving Zimbabwe’s industrialization through research, innovation, and technology transfer. PEI provides advanced expertise in product design, prototyping, testing, and process optimization, while offering consultancy, industrial training, and capacity building to strengthen the national technical workforce. With a strong focus on sustainable production, green technologies, and circular economy solutions, the institute develops and commercializes locally relevant innovations that enhance competitiveness, promote import substitution, and add value across key sectors such as mining, agriculture, energy, transport, and consumer goods manufacturing. Through strategic collaborations with industry, government, and academia, PEI bridges the gap between research and industrial application, positioning itself as a catalyst for economic transformation and modernization.