what's a research center?

A research center like NASA or Oak Ridge employs research scientists. While they don't have to teach classes, many of them will still have students, both undergraduate and graduate, working for them on research projects. These scientists typically support themselves through grant money they earn, and the center gives them a place to do their research, resources they might need to complete it, and the chance to interact with other scientists in the field. Research centers do not grant degrees; the students working there attend colleges and universities, often ones nearby. NASA Goddard, for example, has students from the University of Maryland, Catholic University, Georgetown University, and other nearby schools working there with NASA scientists.