Process for becoming a RED Core Facility

New or existing service providers should submit an application to the VP-RED. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and should consist of the following:

  • Introduction. A brief introduction detailing how the proposed core facility 1) meets the definition of a core facility and 2) aligns with the university’s strategic plan and interdisciplinary research goals. (2 page maximum)
  • Core Facility Structure and Governance. This section will vary in length based on size and scope of the proposed core facility, but will include the following sections/descriptions:
    • A typical staffing structure for a core facility includes a director (usually a tenure-track faculty member who will direct the research mission of the core), a facility manager (an MSU employee who will oversee the core’s operations), plus other technical staff or student employees.
    • Cores are also encouraged to appoint an advisory committee comprised of core users, affiliated faculty, and/or external users.
    • Facility leadership and staffing
    • Facility description, including location(s), equipment, services, etc.
    • Safety requirements and expectations, including site visit and letters of support from Office of Research Compliance and Office of Safety and Risk Management.
    • Other unique structure and/or governance items
  • Fiscal Plan. This section will include detailed analysis of fiscal process, needs, and expectations, including the following sections/descriptions.
    • Fiscal management approach, including all sources of revenue and expense
    • Proposed budget for following fiscal year, including any F&A reinvestment request
  • Scholarship Impact Report. A brief (3 page maximum) report that highlights proposed core facility impact on research and scholarship. Areas of emphasis to consider include 1) grants and contracts, 2) publications, 3) patents/licensures/other economic development activities, 4) graduate and undergraduate courses that will benefit, 5) outreach activities, 6) data management support, and 7) other anticipated impact.

Your application will be reviewed by an ad-hoc review committee composed of members from Research Council and existing core facility directors. The committee size will be approximately 5-7 individuals selected by the VP-RED with input from Research Council and deans of Colleges that are represented in the proposed core facility. The committee will review applications and provide a recommendation to the VP-RED. Applicants will receive formal feedback within 4-6 weeks of the application. 

Applications that are recommended for further consideration will be expected to make a presentation to Research Council. Please use this PowerPoint template to prepare your presentation.  Following input from Research Council and applicable deans, the VP-RED will make a final decision.