Research Lab Update from David Roth, Chair, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine

Dear Research Faculty,

We appreciate all of the help from faculty investigators designating a key person to work in their labs to ramp down activity.  We would like to remind everyone that the PSOM guidelines state only COVID work that affects the current epidemic is allowed and the overarching goal is to depopulate the labs as much as possible. 

I believe it is likely that we will be shut down for over one month, which is why we need researchers, especially those with animal colonies, to ramp down and put their labs into hibernation. 

Regarding NIH:
Jon Epstein's advice today is to please submit grants on time if you can.

Below are announcements from NIH, sent by email to Penn faculty today: 

COVID-19 Resources for Applicants and Recipients of NIH Funding
By Mike Lauer
Due to the potential exceptional impact of the declared public health emergency, we want to assure our recipient community that NIH will be doing our part to help you continue your research. See a video message from Dr. Mike Lauer discussing the flexibilities available for applicants and recipients. Continue reading →

Guidance for NIH-Funded Clinical Trials and Human Subjects Studies Affected by COVID-19
For details on expanded flexibilities, such as mid-project period extensions and administrative supplements for unanticipated costs, see NOT-OD-20-087. Continue reading →

NIH Late Application Policy, Administrative Flexibilities, and FAQs Related to 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
When delays occur because the applicant or recipient organization is officially closed or unable to submit grant applications due to the effects of COVID-19, the NIH will consider accepting applications late, on a case-by-case basis. Continue reading →

Flexibilities for Assured Institutions for Activities of Institutional Animal Care & Use Committees (IACUCs) Due to COVID-19
See NOT-OD-20-088 for flexibilities provided in the Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Policy) that are applicable to implementing a pandemic plan for animal care and use programs. Continue reading →

Special OLAW Webinar on March 19: Pandemic Contingency Planning and Its Impact on Animal Care
Are you testing or implementing your institution’s pandemic response plan for the first time? Do you have questions about flexibilities provided by the PHS Policy that may be helpful during a pandemic? We are hosting a special webinar on March 19th to help your institution prepare for a pandemic that may impact the animal care and use program. Continue reading →

Best,
David