Phase 2 Research Transitioning Starts on June 8, 2020

June 4, 2020

Dear Colleagues,

After meeting with the Orange County Healthcare Agency earlier this week, I am pleased to confirm that UCI will begin transitioning to Phase 2 research starting June 8, 2020.  

Faculty and independent researchers (“Plan Owners”) may commence Phase 2 research activities after their dean/s or SRP/ORU director/s (“Authorized Official”) have approved their research transition plan in writing. The Office of Research has posted the following information on the Research Continuity website to help Plan Owners and Authorized Officials develop and review research transition plans:

• Framework for UCI Phased Research Activities
• General Points of Consideration
• Guidance for Expanding Research Activities – Core Facilities
• Guidance for Expanding Human Subjects Research Activities
• Guidance for Expanding Off-site Research Activities. 

Please review the Guiding Principles, priorities, and processes contained in the Framework as you develop and implement your plans for Phase 2. I also would like to draw your attention to the message on Reengaging Campus Operations from the Interim Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Hal Stern, as well as useful resources and information at the UCI COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions website.

I cannot over-emphasize the need for gradually and smoothly transitioning from Phase 1 to Phase 2 research.  The UCI research community is leading the way, and it is our responsibility to demonstrate how to safely expand campus activities as Orange County continues to navigate the SARS-Cov-2/COVID-19 pandemic. I am confident that we will succeed if everyone in the research community commits to making their health and their colleagues’ health the highest priority at all times.

Sincerely,

Pramod Khargonekar, Ph.D.
Vice Chancellor for Research
Distinguished Professor of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science