The Office of the Executive Vice President for Research (EVPR) recognizes the unique situation created, on many levels, by the spread of COVID-19. Such uncertainty invariably leads to many questions, and as researchers we find ourselves compelled to address those questions through a scientific lens. We are considering proposals for rapid-response activities as well as reflective, long-term activities. For the latter we have an unprecedented opportunity to look at the future of work and societal interactions under large disruptions, such as the one caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Relevant ideas might include, but are certainly not limited to:
- Novel designs and rapid manufacturing technologies for high-volume disposable medical items that are immediately applicable in the short term.
- Novel diagnostic and testing approaches that are immediately applicable and work with local clinical partners.
- Impact on teaching and learning of a wholly online transition of pedagogy.
- Impact of a diluted workforce or a reduction in face-to-face interactions on research and business practices.
- Impact of a significant increase in teleworking and online instruction on network and computing infrastructure and its security.
While proposals may be submitted at any time, proposals received by Monday, March 30, 2020 will receive the highest priority for review. Reviews will be handled internally with faculty appointees from across Georgia Tech’s subject domains. The project timeline itself may be compressed or lengthy, depending on the work. We will strive to strike a balance between immediate response needs and reflective long-term studies.
Proposals must include the following:
- Project description, no longer than one page, which includes:
- a clear statement of the research question you intend to explore
- an explanation of the resources you will need for the project and how you plan to acquire them
- Project budget and justification. The projected grant size is approximately $10,000, with consideration given to larger efforts that demonstrate innovative faculty collaborations.
- For rapid response topics, preference is for topics where there is NOT likely federal funding to support such activities.
- When necessary, technologies with clinical acceptability requirements (e.g. physical devices) must have an external partner (clinic, GCMI, etc.) who can provide guidance on such criteria.
This program is focused on residential instruction (non-GTRI) faculty. GTRI is also launching an IRAD-funded seed program focused on these efforts. If you wish to collaborate with GTRI researchers, please work with a GTRI PI to propose to the GTRI program.
Please direct all questions to Gail Spatt.
