Research Ramp-up Begins
As of Monday, June 22, eligible persons gradually begin to return to campus as part of the ramping-up of laboratory and clinical research with the following conditions:
- Work that can be done remotely must continue to be done remotely to maintain density limitations on campus.
- Plans must be approved in advance at the department and/or school level prior to resuming on-site research.
- If you are eligible for return and plan to do so, please pay particular attention to the testing, training and symptom self-check requirements, and compliance outlined on this website below. Access to University premises is not permitted unless you are in compliance with them.
Currently at Columbia, essential research, both in the laboratory and with human subjects, is ongoing. Only such essential research may take place at Columbia until the University confirms that we will move to the first phase of the ramp-up. When we move to the first phase, some individuals involved with laboratory and clinical research that must be conducted on site may be allowed to resume these on-site activities, but only in accordance with the plan developed by the principal investigator and approved by the relevant department and/or school.
Work that can be done remotely must continue to be done remotely, to maintain density limitations on campus.
No non-essential staff or administrators should be returning at this time.
This is not a judgment you are to make on your own. All schools and institutes have prepared for the ramping-up of research by establishing priorities and procedures. That includes a determination of which research can resume on site, and when. Unless permitted by your school or institute’s ramping-up plan, you’re not returning.
The Research Ramp-up Framework communicates principles and considerations to assist schools and researchers as they plan to restart research and provides an overview of the phases in the process. The initial phase of return allows up to a maximum of one third of normal occupancy at any point in time, and advises using that capacity as efficiently as feasible by staggering work hours, working in shifts, and the like. Of course, all the parameters specified in the framework are subject to revision in response to public health requirements.
Please reference the Coronavirus Resource Center, which provides information on COVID-19 for patients and the Columbia University Irving Medical Center community.
Preparation for Resuming On-site Research
The following actions are required for a safe research ramp-up:
Each PI has been required to develop a ramp-up plan that meets public health requirements and is approved by the relevant department and/or school.
All personnel returning to on-site activity must complete training. Researchers must complete this training in Rascal and sign the related attestation.
Newly returning researchers are required to obtain a baseline SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic test.
As required by New York State, and effective June 22, 2020 all faculty, staff and students will be required to complete a daily 3-question symptom self-check each day before entering campus premises.
Consider University resources for specific needs such as transportation, childcare, and other needs.
Daily Routine Before Arrival
Notify your supervisor that you will be staying home.
As required by New York State, and effective June 22, 2020 all faculty, staff and students will be required to complete a daily 3-question symptom self-check each day before entering campus premises.
Wear a face covering and practice physical distancing and other health and safety measures while traveling to work.
Daily Routine At Work
If you get sick while at work, notify your supervisor that you will be leaving and update your COVID-19 symptom self-check.
A face covering is required at all times on-site.
Follow the plans for your laboratory, including occupancy limits and schedules.
Your supervisor will provide instructions on how to receive face coverings and PPE for use on-site.
Maintain 6 feet of physical distance between each person at all times.
Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds as appropriate.
Where to Go With a Concern
To discuss a concern, if possible, first contact your supervisor, department or the office of the dean of your school or institute.
Supporting over 9,500 faculty and researchers across the four health science schools of the medical center
Responsible for administering University policies and processes governing academic appointments, managing tenure review, and maintaining fair processes in handling grievances from academic officers
A full range of services, including recruiting, interviewing, placing and guiding employees; maintaining benefits and payroll; mediating conflict; hosting trainings; and, offering learning and development programs
Supporting and assisting postdocs in their professional training and development, and offering in-depth guidance and resources on all matters pertaining to postdoctoral affairs
The hotline serves as a channel for employees to report or seek guidance on possible compliance issues.
A confidential place to discuss workplace issues, academic concerns, issues relating to administrative paperwork and process, explanation and interpretation of policies and procedures, and other issues or concerns.
The Research Ramp-Up Ambassadors provide support on issues such as: (1) pressure to come back to on-site work at a time where this is voluntary; (2) concerns from individuals who want to come back but have been told to wait; or (3) concerns that individuals or labs are not following the required safety and public health measures to protect against the spread of COVID-19.
Planning Tools and Guidance
Recent Communications
Response to Recent Immigration Restrictions
President Lee C. Bollinger writes that great research universities contribute to the public good by being a part of an international community of scholars and researchers.
Zuckerman Institute Finds Clever Way to Keep Its Researchers Safe
An animated video promotes safety guidelines for the University's ramp-up of lab and clinical research.
Important Message About New Requirements for Those Working on Campus
As the University begins the ramping-up of laboratory and clinical research on campus, Interim Provost Ira Katznelson announces new actions required by everyone on campus.