Process for requesting resources
An investigator who is interested in using the Research Incubator’s resources will be registered in the RI’s database (a one-time only process). The investigator registration information entered into the database will include demographic data, contact information and academic affiliation information. The RI may use this information to assess the utilization of resources and track project progress.
Project registration
An investigator who is interested in using the RI’s resources will submit a request for resources to the RI. Recognizing that investigators will need varying levels of assistance with proposal development, the request application can be submitted directly to the RI or completed during an interactive meeting(s) with RI personnel.
A well-developed proposal that is submitted directly to the RI will include a description of the study, specific aims, description of the clinical importance of the study and potential funding sources (if applicable). If an investigator has prepared a proposal for submission to another reviewing entity (e.g., an A.D. Williams Grant Application, General Clinical Research Center Application, etc.), he/she may use this proposal as the basis of the RI application for resources. The investigator may include additional information in the RI resource application to highlight how the requested resources would enhance the proposed work. The total application will be limited to five pages.
If the investigator does not have a well-developed research proposal, he/she may come to the RI for help in preparing a request for the use of RI resources. In order for the RI staff to most efficiently help the investigator, he/she should have given consideration to the items listed on the RI Resource Request Form prior to coming to the RI. The research liaison will assist the investigator with preparing the request for resources by helping to articulate a description of the study, specific aims, description of the clinical importance of the study and potential funding sources (if applicable). The research liaison will enter this information into the RI database, forming the basis of the application for resources. The investigator may include additional information in the application to highlight how the requested resources would enhance the proposed work. The completed resource application will be printed from the RI database and reviewed and signed off by the investigator before submission for review. The total application will be limited to five pages.
An investigator who submits an incomplete or inadequately developed proposal may be asked to provide additional information or better formulate the research hypothesis, rationale or endpoints. If a proposal is returned to an investigator for revision, RI personnel will identify specific areas that need improvement and, if appropriate, link the investigator with a mentor who can assist with the proposal.
An application for RI resources will be judged on set criteria including the project’s scientific merit and RI resource availability. Junior/new investigators’ review scores will be favorably weighted.