The paper science laboratory serves two main purposes. First of all, it provides an independent testing facility for research pertaining to the pulp and paper field. Being a university laboratory rather than a business, it is able to perfrom work at a fraction of the cost of other testing sites. This fosters a relationship with mill sites that wouldn't normally be inclined to perform research because of its costly nature.

More importantly, the paper science laboratory serves as a learning ground for paper science and engineering students as well as for students from other diciplines. The lab provides jobs for students that allow them to apply knowlege gained in the classroom, while adjusting to fit their schedules. Moreover, it exposes them to the world of industrial research and provides a greater understanding of how processes are run in a mill setting.