(Photo By Flickr User Adam Moss)

The University Of Illinois (the state’s flagship university),  is looking to expand a program to the western part of the state.

According to WQAD-TV, The Illinois Innovation Network is a state-wide research enterprise lead by the University of Illinois.

Western Illinois University President Jack Thomas says the U of I is looking to develop more of its research centers across the state.

The University Of Illinois is currently developing campuses in Champaign, Chicago, and Springfield. IL.

Board of Higher Education Executive Director Al Bowman says the U of I could partner with universities like Western in the future.