Exceptions for Access to Private Offices for Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity

Dear Research Community,

As you know, a key requirement of the Research Ramp Up process has been that research, scholarship and creative activity which can be conducted remotely should be done off-site. This requirement has enabled us to maintain activity on campus, while at all times remaining below the county-mandated 25% of normal occupancy levels.

However, we are aware that in exceptional circumstances, some academics whose work does not specifically require access to on-site equipment or facilities are nonetheless critically hampered from conducting their research due to challenging remote work situations. As a result, in consultation with the EVC, Deans, Provosts, and Academic Senate, the Research Continuity Task Force has instituted a new opportunity for such persons to request exceptional access to private offices on-campus in order to conduct research, scholarship, or creative activity.

To be clear, this is intended to be a focused opportunity limited to those who demonstrate exceptional need for access to a quiet location in which to work. Such restrictions are required to ensure that the campus as a whole is able to maintain reduced population density as required by County Public Health orders.

Any academic appointee eligible to submit proposals for extramural support as per PPM 150-10 is eligible to submit an Office-Only research ramp up plan for exceptional use of on-site space. Those requesting limited access to private on-site offices must demonstrate that their productivity is compromised by a home environment that is not conducive to effect research, scholarship or creative activity, and that they will be able to adhere to all campus safety guidelines.

Complete guidelines are available at https://blink.ucsd.edu/research/covid-19/research-ramp-up.html. Those requesting access must submit an Exceptional Access Request & Safety Standards form (available for download at https://blink.ucsd.edu/research/covid-19/quick-links.html) to researchrampup@ucsd.edu no later than September 9th. Forms will be reviewed by academic leaders (Department Chairs and Deans, or equivalent), who will notify applicants whether or not their request has been approved.

We very much hope that this opportunity will make it possible for our faculty and researchers to continue their research more effectively in coming months.

If you have any questions, please consult with your department chair or email researchrampup@ucsd.edu.

Sandra A. Brown
Vice Chancellor for Research