As a chartered University Research Center, the CFAR provides focus and coordination for basic and clinical AIDS research activities to ensure effective dialogue between administrators and investigators. Towards this end, the Center provides the necessary infrastructure in the form of Core facilities, equipment, administrative and technical support to foster collaboration and research.

Over the last 5 years the UAB CFAR, in conjunction with other CFARs, has participated in national networks that were established based on common areas of interest and importance (CNICS, NA-ACCORD, CTU).

UAB investigators have been engaged in the leadership of each of these initiatives and have made major contributions in furthering the mission of these emerging networks. HIV research efforts and clinical applications abroad are now solely concentrated in Zambia through CIDRZ.