The University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) is a nonprofit consortium of more than 120 North American colleges and universities. With a focus on research and training in Earth system science, UCAR serves as a hub for the Earth system sciences. Acting as the experienced managers of the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) on behalf of the National Science Foundation, UCAR administers essential functions such as finance, human resources, facilities, and information technology that contribute to NCAR's success.

UCAR's community programs extend and enhance the world-class research conducted at the national center. By offering diverse students opportunities to pursue science careers, delivering online professional training, providing data delivery, and other valued services, UCAR promotes and accelerates access to resources needed to advance Earth system science. UCAR fosters connections within the Earth system science community, encouraging the exchange of ideas, discussion of challenges, and sharing of knowledge.

Through collaboration with researchers, educators, cutting-edge resources, and the private sector, UCAR brings research out of the lab and into the real world for the benefit of society. As a self-governing body representing academic programs in Earth system science in North America, UCAR advocates for its membership and collaborates with the broader community to convey the value of research, education, and partnerships to policymakers and decision makers