NEOMED awards Strategic Initiative Funding to improve research approval processes
In support of the advancement of the 2030 Strategic Plan, leadership has awarded Strategic Initiative Funding (SIF) to expand NEOMED’s electronic research protocol system.
The proposal, submitted by Rebecca German, Ph.D., Patricia Sloan and Jesse Zampedro, will support a more efficient and coordinated process for reviewing research involving human participants and biosafey concerns.
Modernizing Research Support
Before research projects can begin, they must undergo institutional review to ensure they meet required safety, ethical and regulatory standards.
NEOMED already uses an electronic system to manage animal research protocols. This platform has improved the experience for both researchers and reviewers by replacing paper forms, email chains and manual tracking with a centralized online process.
The new funding will expand this system to additional areas of research oversight, creating a more consistent experience across the University.
A More Efficient Experience
The expanded platform will allow researchers, committee members and compliance staff to manage submissions, feedback, revisions and approvals in one place.
This will reduce administrative steps, improve communication and make it easier to track the progress and history of each research project. It will also help NEOMED respond more efficiently to reporting and regulatory requirements.
For faculty, staff and students involved in research, the goal is a simpler and more transparent approval process that allows projects to move forward more efficiently while maintaining strong standards for safety and compliance.
Strategic Impact
NEOMED manages a growing number of research protocols across multiple areas. Expanding the electronic platform will help the University support that growth without creating additional administrative burden.
The initiative also advances collaboration, research excellence and operational efficiency across the Academics, Discovery, and Engagement and Operations pillars of the strategic plan.
Implementation and Training
The system is expected to be purchased and installed beginning in August 2026. Compliance staff will receive training and then provide workshops and online resources to help members of the research community transition to the new platform.
New protocols will begin using the system after implementation, and existing protocols are expected to be migrated by January 2027.
Measuring Success
Success will be measured by comparing processing times before and after implementation and by gathering feedback from researchers and committee members.
The project team will use this information to assess whether the system improves efficiency, communication, ease of use and the overall research approval experience.
Apply for SIF
Have an Idea for Improving NEOMED? Apply for Strategic Initiative Funding
This award is one example of how Strategic Initiative Funding supports high-impact initiatives aligned with NEOMED’s mission and strategic plan.
If you have an idea that advances NEOMED’s strategic priorities, we want to hear about it. Learn more about Strategic Initiative Funding at www.neomed.edu/strategicplan.