HSC Team Members,
As you are aware, in January 2019 we began an endeavor to launch the Faculty Research Support Team (FRST) in the hopes of bringing about a greater benefit to our HSC Research Community. The idea was to create a “first line” to assist researchers with grant application and award guidance at the equivalent of a department level. The goal was to free up faculty and department administrator time, and standardize applications processes and procedures.
During the gradual rollout and development of FRST, we have been garnering feedback and reviewing outcomes of this program and concept. In addition, some processes of FRST were evaluated during the recent Process Improvement Initiative (PI2) at HSC. After thorough review and deliberations, the research administration team have concluded that the FRST program did not work in the manner as originally intended and desired.
In the hopes of enhancing a more defined bridge of trust, collaboration, communication, as well as provide a clearer and more efficient level of service to our research faculty, we have decided to absorb FRST operations and personnel into the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP).
We know this transition will have a positive impact on our campus and look forward to many years of success in utilizing FRST members’ skills, energy and enthusiasm in this new combined involvement in the research enterprise at our One University. Their redefined roles in OSP will be a key to the successful launch of our Grant and Research Administration Management Suite (GRAMS). Additionally, we will continue to have a unique branch in the Division of Research and Innovation (DRI) to coordinate other previous tasks of FRST – the Research Enhancement Assistance Program (REAP), Limited Submissions, and Proposal Development tools and initiatives.
– J. Thomas Cunningham, PhD | Associate Vice President for Research Administration
– Brian A. Gladue, PhD | Executive Vice President for Research and Innovation