ALCEN possesses a large number of laboratories working on a vast range of technologies. In order to match its means with its ambitions, ALCEN has additionally developed collaboration expertise with external research centers. Thus, over the years, it has forged links with the CEA Military Applications Division (DAM), the CEA Technological Research Division (DRT), the CEA Fundamental Research Division (DRF), CNRS laboratories, Ifremer, the BRGM (French Geological Survey) and ONERA (the French Aerospace Lab), as well as with schools and universities.

As part of its partnership approach, it favors "applied" research, i.e. research focused on a specific product from the outset.

It is part of ALCEN’s business culture to use the technological knowledge acquired through partnerships in fields other than those initially chosen.