Shared facilities: access and review

Access to a common resource

Shared facilities support work that participating teams could not reasonably duplicate on their own. Access includes instrument time, field placements, laboratory services and training. The responsible office coordinates each facility with its operating partner.

What a proposal must establish

A proposal sets out its question, method, requested capacity and the record it will produce. Teams identify equipment needs, field risks, environmental considerations and the expertise needed to interpret the result. Regional participation and opportunities for technical training are considered alongside scientific value.

Review and allocation

Independent panels assess scientific value. Facility staff assess feasibility, capacity and readiness. An allocation does not waive operating limits or environmental requirements. Changes in availability are recorded with the decision about how to proceed.

Prepare for a research placement

Confirm the observing method, required calibration, data responsibilities and training before the placement. The program office identifies the relevant access call and operating agreement. Access calls specify the responsible institution, available capacity and submission route.

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