Memo: Timeline for return to on-campus research and clinical work

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Last week I asked faculty to begin planning for the eventual resumption of on-campus research and clinical work. This unprecedented challenge will require a massive, coordinated effort, and I want to thank the hundreds of principal investigators and clinic directors who have already reviewed the Research Recovery Toolkit and begun submitting plans. These submissions will help us develop overarching plans to resume research in each unit, and when the time comes they will serve as the basis for prioritizing which research groups will be permitted to return to campus at reduced density, with social distancing measures in place.

Today I want to respond to a few frequently asked questions to clarify the phased timeline for this ramp-up, reiterate the steps required before any research or clinical groups return to campus, and point the research community to newly created resources to guide ongoing planning.

Can my research or clinical group return to campus on Monday, May 18?

No. At this time we have not set a date for the reopening of labs and centers. You can expect the recovery process to be considerably slower than the process we took to ramp down, and guided at every stage by public health recommendations.

How will I know when my lab/center/group has permission to return to campus?

As faculty submit plans, they will be shared with department chairs, directors of University-wide centers, and Associate Deans for Research for review, and then submitted to the Office of Research for approval. Plans for clinical work are also being reviewed by the Medical Advisory Group. On-campus research and clinical operations are not authorized to commence until they have received this formal approval, which will be communicated through the Associate Dean for Research or center director, or the Office of Research for clinics and clinical centers.

Do I need to submit a recovery plan to continue my work remotely?

While we will eventually require recovery plans from all faculty PIs, faculty may choose to delay submission of plans if they are not yet seeking permission to resume on-campus research.

Where can I find more detailed guidance on the personal protective equipment and supplies required for various situations?

This week, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) posted new guidance on using face coverings and other measures for reducing risk of exposure, including social distancing and best practices for hygiene in labs. For additional questions please visit the EHS website or contact OEHS@bu.edu.

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Full FAQs, planning guidance, and resources are available in the Research Recovery Toolkit, including the recording from a recent town hall on the research recovery process. Input from the research community will continue to be invaluable in shaping this recovery effort. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with additional questions, feedback, and ideas.

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