IU Research Restart June 1st – what does this mean for graduate and professional students?
IU has allowed only a small number of essential research activities to continue on campus during March-May 2020, while classes were moved to an online platform. In June, a larger number of faculty, staff and graduate students will be allowed to return to campus to continue or restart their research. For graduate students in research-based master’s or Ph.D. programs, talk to your faculty mentor or research advisor to determine if you can return to your research project whether on campus, in the field, or in a clinical setting. We are encouraging those who can work remote (at home via computer) to do so to help with social distancing and to protect those who must come to campus. If your work can only be done on campus (or in the field or clinic), talk to your faculty mentor or advisor to confirm they have created a safety and communication plan for you and other members of your research team. Ask to discuss the plan at a team meeting and ensure you follow the rules including wearing a mask on campus when you are working around others or traveling around campus buildings. Keep in mind to allow distance between team members in labs or work spaces, and ensure you are helping to keep high touch surfaces clean to protect yourself and others. As part of your plan you should also know to stay home if you are ill or have symptoms associated with COVID-19, and to inform your research team members if you are unable to come to campus for work. Faculty, not students, are responsible for developing a safety plan and having it approved by their school, informing their team of the plan, and submitting a form to request approval to return.
Guidelines for Resumption of Research at Indiana University
At this site you will find more guidance and information on working safe this summer as well as the form to request approval to return. We are all in this together, and taking safety precautions will help keep research at IUPUI moving forward for students and faculty. We recognize that making progress in your research is key to completing your degree and advancing your career goals. Professional students can also participate in research on campus, but again need to consult their mentor or program advisor for guidance.
No student should be required or pressured to participate in on-campus research during the COVID-19 crisis. If you are concerned about returning to campus and your safety, do talk to your research advisor or mentor, or you department chair, and check out the information at IU HR. If you hold a student academic appointment (teaching, research or graduate assistantship) you can also reach out to Rachel Applegate for guidance related to working on campus this summer.
The Graduate Office team wants to help you make the most of your summer and research opportunities at IUPUI. Stay well and we will continue to be in touch.