uconn health

NIH Asks For Your Feedback

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The Office of the Vice President for Research would like to share some information regarding data sharing with researchers who may be affected.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is requesting comments on the draft NIH Policy for Data Management and Sharing and Supplemental Draft Guidance.

NIH will be hosting an informational webinar on the draft NIH policy and guidance on Monday, December 16th from 12:30-2:00 PM ET. The purpose of the webinar is to provide information on the draft policy and answer questions about the public comment process.

Submit your comments to NIH by January 10, 2020. Additional information can be found in this NIH blog post. Questions about the draft may be sent to the NIH Office of Science Policy at SciencePolicy@od.nih.gov.

For questions, please contact Research Compliance Monitor, Ellen Ciesielski at 860.679.6004.

UConn Health InfoEd and ORCID iD Integration

ORCID Display Badge 2019

ORCID Authenticate Badge 2019The InfoEd eRA Portal is integrated with ORCID®. ORCID iDs are unique identifiers assigned to individual scholars and researchers. ORCID provides a persistent identifier – an ORCID iD – that distinguishes you from other researchers and a mechanism for linking your research outputs and activities to your iD. Using an ORCID allows your manuscripts, grants, and other scholarship to be more discoverable and integrated within larger research networks. Faculty, staff and students at the University of Connecticut ORCiD can authenticate and display their ORCID iD along side their name on their InfoEd Genius profile. The InfoEd-ORCID was the first ORCID iD integration at the University of Connecticut and was completed in August, 2019. In November, 2019 InfoEd UConn Health and ORCID integration went live.

Connect

From your UConn Health InfoEd profile, click the “Connect Your ORCiD ID” link to begin the Authentication process. If you already have an ORCID, enter your Email or ORCID iD and ORCID password, and then click sign into ORCID button to login with your ORCID account. You may sign in through a personal or Instititonal account using your UConn NetID. If you do not have an ORCID, click Register now to create one, provide the necessary information, and submit the registration form.

Authenticate

When you click the “Authorize” button, we ask you to share your iD using an authenticated process: either by registering for an ORCID iD or, if you already have one, to sign into your ORCID account. We do this to ensure you are correctly identified in our electronic Research Administration systems and are securely connecting your own unique ORCID iD.

Display

To acknowledge that you have used your iD and that it has been authenticated, we display the ORCID iD icon ORCiD alongside your name in your InfoEd Genius profile and provide a link to your ORCiD profile from within the InfoEd eRA Portal.

Contact

If you need help with connecting your ORCID iD to your InfoEd profile, email era-support@uconn.edu or call 860-486-7944.

If you have questions about getting an ORCID, how it will be used by the University of Connecticut, or any other related questions, please contact Carolyn.Mills@uconn.edu at UConn Libraries.

ORCID Consortium Organization Member

IACUC Policy on Photography of Research Animals

Purpose:
This policy is intended to protect the confidentiality and integrity of UConn Health research, to ensure respect for the privacy and safety interests of faculty, staff, and students, and to prevent misleading representation of animal care and use at UConn Health.  This policy describes the permitted use of recording devices in any area where animals are housed, tested, studied, or used at UConn Health (including laboratories).

Action:
The use of any recording device (e.g., film camera, digital camera, camera phone, digital recorder, sound recorder, live streaming equipment) to record sounds or images of animals or animal use areas is prohibited unless one of the following exceptions apply:

1. When performed by the Principal Investigator (PI) or designee and is required for IACUC approved (i.e., University-sanctioned), scientifically justifiable reasons (e.g., behavioral analysis, clinical feature documentation, or laboratory documentation);
2. When performed by the PI or designee for the purpose of recording for instructional activities as described in the IACUC-approved protocol (e.g., behavioral testing recordings);
3. When performed by, or at the direction of, the Attending Veterinarian (AV) for diagnosing or documenting clinical disease, veterinary care, or treatment;
4. When performed by compliance personnel (e.g., IACUC members or office personnel) when required to document condition of facilities, compliance, or animal welfare issues; and
5. When performed by government inspectors (e.g., USDA Veterinary Medical Officer).

UConn Health personnel listed on an approved IACUC protocol who wish to record in animal use areas for reasons not described in the above list of exceptions must have prior approval from the IACUC Chair or AV to perform any photography or recording(s).  It is important that UConn Health personnel recognize that what they perceive as appropriate may not necessarily be seen similarly in the public eye.  Any or all recordings, including photographs, may not be stored on a personal device and may require research IT encryption of computers upon which these files are stored.  The following should be considered:

1. Photography taken for the legitimate purpose of publication in manuscripts, presentations at conferences external to UConn Health, or in any public forum should be appropriate to the intended audience.  Efforts should be made to show appropriate and accurate context when audio or visual recordings are made (e.g., if an animal is anesthetized or sedated, include the anesthetic vaporizer or tray holding the bottle of tranquilizing agent; have personnel wearing required personal protective equipment);
2. Images, audio recordings, or videos of UCH research animals posted to any social media outlet, including personal websites,  is strictly prohibited;
3. Photograpy taken of research animals for entertainment purposes or for a malicious use is strictly prohibited;
4. For security purposes, every effort should be made to avoid showing identifying landmarks (e.g., building and room numbers, worker’s name badges, cage cards, etc.);
5. The IACUC Chair, Institutional Official, and/or the AV reserve the right to review any recording (audio or visual) prior to release; and
6. Federal or state inspectors are authorized to take photographs of research animals but individuals that accompany these inspectors should ask that the photographs be brought to the exit briefing for review by the Institutional Official or their designee.

If you need to record animals, please contact the IACUC office or contact Alison Pohl.

The widespread use of mobile devices equipped with photographic capabilities (e.g., smart phones, tablets, etc.) permits almost anyone with access to UConn Health animal care and use areas to both legitimately and illegitimately capture and store images of animal subjects.  This policy specifies the conditions under which legitimate photography of animal subjects is permitted within UConn Health animal research areas.  Violation of this policy will be brought to the attention of the IACUC, which will investigate this incident and recommend corrective action with participation from UConn Health Human Resources and the particular Department Head.

References:
The Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, 8th Edition (2011)

Effective Dates:  June 5, 2025 through June 30, 2028

This policy has been approved by a majority vote of the IACUC members.

 

Research Involving Cannabis, Hemp, and Marijuana

Cannabis-related research – including research involving marijuana and hemp – must conform to federal and state laws as well as University of Connecticut (“UConn”) policies.

Under the Federal 2018 Agricultural Improvement Act (Farm Bill), hemp is no longer a controlled substance. Hemp is legally defined as Cannabis sativa L. that contains not more than 0.3% delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (“THC”) content on a dry-weight basis.  The Farm Bill currently restricts the growing of hemp to states that have established a Hemp Research Pilot Program.

Connecticut recently established such a program with the passing of Public Act 19-3: “An Act Concerning a Pilot Program for Hemp Production.” This act established the state of Connecticut Hemp Research Pilot Program (HRPP) to support research that advances the Department of Agriculture's understanding of hemp agriculture at national, regional, and local levels.  This legislation sets the state requirements for hemp growers, processors, and manufacturers to obtain a license, and establishes requirements for licensing, testing, and inspection.  State requirements apply to the cultivation, processing, and manufacturing of hemp.  State requirements also apply to academic and scientific research, teaching, and testing involving hemp.

UConn researchers who wish to participate in the Connecticut’s HRPP must register through the University and follow University guidelines related to growing, processing, and manufacturing hemp.  For more information on registering through the University, email contact information to HempProgram@uconn.edu.  

Marijuana, including Cannabis sativa L. that contains more than 0.3% delta-9 THC, remains a Schedule I controlled substance, the most restrictive status, under the Controlled Substances Act.  The possession, production, processing, sale, or growth of marijuana remains illegal under Federal law, except under special licensing requirements established by the Drug Enforcement Agency (“DEA”).  Research with marijuana requires the researcher to have both a Federal Schedule I and a Connecticut Schedule II controlled substance license, and s/he may only receive marijuana from other DEA registrants or from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (“NIDA”) approved sources.  UConn researchers must also follow the University’s Controlled Substances Policy or the UConn Health Controlled Substances Policy.  For more information regarding marijuana research, contact HempProgram@uconn.edu.

FAQs

Who is the primary UConn point of contact for external relations issues and requests related to hemp and marijuana?

In the Office of the Vice President for Research, the Associate Vice President for Research Integrity and Regulatory Affairs is the primary UConn point of contact regarding hemp and marijuana. Questions regarding hemp and marijuana should be emailed to <a href="mailto:HempProgram@uconn.edu">HempProgram@uconn.edu</a>.

How do I register through the University in order to participate in the state program?

To register through the University, email contact information to <a href="mailto:HempProgram@uconn.edu">HempProgram@uconn.edu</a>. Registration will involve a criminal background check, designation of the location hemp will be grown or processed, and designation of the source of the hemp.

Can I grow or process hemp, or engage in manufacturing with hemp at UConn without registering?

No. Growing hemp, processing hemp, or engaging in manufacturing with hemp by an individual as part of their University responsibilities or position, as part of a University program, or in University facilities or on University land must register with the Connecticut through the University.

Can I have a personal hemp plant in my dorm room, office, or other location?

No. The University does not allow growing, processing, or use in manufacturing of hemp on any UConn campus or in any UConn facilities unless it has been registered with the state through the University.

Where can I find information regarding the Connecticut Hemp Research Pilot Program?

The <a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DOAG/Regulatory/Regulatory/Hemp-Home-Page" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Connecticut Hemp Research Pilot Program</a> provides information on the state program.

Once the state has issued a license, what am I required to do as the project principle investigator?

Once issued a license, you must comply with the provisions of Public Act 19-3 (the “Public Act”), the federal act (as defined in the Public Act), and the Connecticut Department of Agriculture (“DOAG”) Compliance Policy. As a condition of being granted a grower license, you, as the principle investigator and on-site manager listed on the license, and the University agree to the requirements listed below. Note that submissions and notifications must be made through the University:
1. Comply with instructions from the DOAG and law enforcement agencies;
2. Agree to pay DOAG applicable licensing and inspection fees;
3. Consent to entry onto, and inspection of all buildings, equipment, supplies, vehicles, and records located on this real property where hemp or plants or materials are located, or licensed to be located, by the commissioner, and law enforcement agencies, at any time, with or without cause, and with or without advance notice;
4. Comply with DOAG’s criminal history records check requirements; and
5. Consent to forfeit and destroy, without compensation:
a. Material found to have a THC content in excess of three-tenths percent (0.3%) on a dry weight basis;
b. Hemp plants located in an area that is not licensed by the department; and
c. Hemp plants not accounted for in required reports for the department.
6. Notify the DOAG of all hemp growing, handling, and storage locations, including legal description and GPS coordinates in decimal degrees to the ten-thousandth place, and receive department approval for those locations prior to having hemp on those premises.
7. Submit a Site Modification Request Form, the appropriate fees based on the requested changes, and obtain prior written approval from the commissioner before implementing any change to the plot(s) stated in the grower license application.
8. Not grow, handle, or store hemp in any location(s) other than the location(s) listed in the grower license application.
9. Not interplant hemp with any other crop without express written permission from the DOAG.
10. Not apply and not allow anyone else to apply pesticide to hemp except by person(s) who hold a valid permit or certificate, if required, to apply pesticides in accordance with section 22a-54 of the Connecticut general statutes.
11. Comply with all legal requirements regarding minimum distances from certain structures, and outdoor recreational facilities.
12. Acknowledges that the risk of financial or other loss shall be borne solely by the License Holder.
13. Use a record keeping and product coding system for hemp to facilitate the effective tracking of hemp and hemp products. Such plot system shall be capable of tracing hemp placed into the wholesale or retail distribution chain back to the producing plot. Such records shall be maintained for a period of time that exceeds the expected shelf life of the hemp or five (5) years, whichever is longer. Records of hemp product coding and distribution shall be made available immediately upon request of the department or any law enforcement agency.
14. Ensure that any time hemp is in transit within Connecticut, a copy of the grower license, and certificate of analysis showing the sample to have a THC concentration at or below three-tenths (0.3) percent on a dry weight basis, shall be available for inspection upon the request of the commissioner or any law enforcement agency. In the event the hemp being transported is a hemp sample being transported to a laboratory, then the sample shall be contained in a sealed tamper evident sample package and accompanied by the department approved completed chain of custody form for hemp samples. The hemp sample label shall contain, at a minimum, the date and time the sample was collected, licensee name, licensee number, location where the sample originated, identification of the lot the sample represents and a sample identification number or laboratory accession number.
15. Upon request from the commissioner or a law enforcement agency, immediately produce a copy of his or her grower license for inspection.
16. Submit Planting Reports, Harvest/Destruction Reports, Production Reports, and other reports required by the commissioner, on or before the deadlines established in these regulations. These records shall be maintained for at least three (3) years after harvest or destruction of the hemp. These records shall be made available immediately upon request of the department or any law enforcement agency.
17. Scout and monitor plots for volunteer hemp plants and to destroy those volunteer hemp plants for three (3) years past the last date of planting reported to the department.
18. Not to rent land to cultivate hemp from any person who has a state or federal felony conviction for a controlled substance within 10 (ten) years of the date of this agreement.
19. Notify the department of any interaction with any law enforcement agency immediately by phone and follow-up in writing within three (3) calendar days of the occurrence.
20. Immediately notify the department and applicable law enforcement agency of any theft of hemp materials, whether growing or not.
21. Immediately notify the department and applicable law enforcement agency of any unauthorized cultivation of any plant, within each plot.
22. To destroy any hemp or cannabis that is obligated to be destroyed, only in accordance with state and federal law, and the department’s established procedures.
23. Acknowledge that failure to comply with terms and conditions established in the department’s Compliance Policy and any regulations shall constitute grounds for appropriate action, up to and including termination of the grower license and expulsion from the department’s program.
24. Acknowledge that a person who has been expelled from the program shall not be eligible to reapply to the program for a period of five (5) years from the date of expulsion.
25. Have read and understood the state and federal statutes and the department’s Compliance Policy and any regulations related to the conditional grower license that is being issued.
26. Understand the Commissioner shall revoke or terminate any conditional grower license, if the applicant’s or conditional licensee’s, (including signing authority and on-site manager) results do not meet the federal and state criminal history records check, or the requirements of the federal act, the Public Act and the Compliance Policy.

How should UConn researchers dispose of unwanted industrial hemp materials?

Currently, the only process for destruction of materials is burial or composting. Signed documentation of method of destruction, who destroyed the materials, and when the destruction occurred should be retained.

What is the definition of industrial hemp?

The definition of hemp under Connecticut and federal law is “a plant of the genus Cannabis and any part of the plant, whether growing or not, containing a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of no more than three-tenths of one percent (0.3%) on a dry weight basis.”

Is hemp different from marijuana?

Yes. Hemp and marijuana are varieties of the cannabis plant that are differentiated based on selective breeding. Hemp is bred for its fiber and seed oil. By both federal and state law, hemp cannot contain more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis. THC is delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol and is the psychoactive component of marijuana. Marijuana is defined as cannabis that contains greater than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis. Marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance. Schedule I controlled substances are subject to the most intense scrutiny by the DEA. In Connecticut, the Connecticut Department of Agriculture regulates hemp cultivation. Under the U.S. Farm Bill and Connecticut’s Pilot Program, institutions of higher education like UConn have latitude to cultivate and research industrial hemp, including its constituent compounds, without a DEA Schedule I license.

Does hemp include extracts that include cannabidiol or other cannabinoids?

The key defining characteristic of hemp is that it is Cannabis sativa L. that does not include THC at a concentration of more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis. If the extract meets that criterion, was lawfully grown in accordance with a state Pilot Program, and was processed in accordance with state law, then it would qualify for treatment as industrial hemp.

Can UConn researchers do hemp research under a DEA Schedule I registration?

No, a researcher may not perform research on hemp with a DEA Schedule I registration because hemp has been removed from the Federal Controlled Substances Schedule.

Can UConn researchers grow industrial hemp for research purposes?

Yes, but this requires registering through the University for a growers’ license from the Connecticut Department of Agriculture.

Where can UConn researchers obtain certified seed to grow hemp for research purposes?

UConn researchers should obtain certified hemp seed only from an agency authorized under the laws of a state, territory, or possession of the United States to officially certify hemp seeds and that has standards and procedures approved by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to assure the genetic purity and identity of the hemp seed certified. The seed must have a certificate or other instrument attesting to its genetic purity and identity.

Can UConn researchers obtain CBD (Cannabidiol) for research purposes?

A qualified yes. CBD and other materials derived from Hemp that contain a THC concentration of less than 0.3% on a dry weight basis are not subject to the Controlled Substances Act if the materials are cultivated and processed pursuant to the U.S. Farm Bill and the Pilot Program. In addition, the sourcing party must be properly licensed (for cultivation/processing) with the state’s proper licensing authorities. Please contact HempProgram@uconn.edu before undertaking such research. They can alert researchers to any issues that may exist with sourcing and licensing requirements.

I only want to purchase CBD (cannabidiol) or hemp for use in my research, not grow or process hemp. Are there any specific requirements?

Only hemp, CBD, and other hemp derivatives that can be traced back to lawfully cultivated Industrial Hemp through proper documentation can be used for research.  You should only procure hemp and hemp derivatives from vendors that can provide such documentation. A copy of such documentation must be retained by the researcher. CBD or hemp derived from Industrial Hemp does not require a Connecticut State Hemp License or a DEA Controlled Substance License.  However, CBD or hemp that is NOT derived from Industrial Hemp or that you DO NOT have documentation as being derived from Industrial Hemp is considered a Schedule 1 Controlled Substance.  Possession of a Schedule 1 Controlled Substance is illegal unless you hold the appropriate State and Federal DEA licensure.

Can UConn researchers obtain hemp products from third parties for research purposes?

A qualified yes. Hemp materials and products (other than viable seeds) that contain a THC concentration of less than 0.3% on a dry weight basis are not subject to the Controlled Substances Act <em>if</em> the materials and products are cultivated pursuant to the U.S. Farm Bill and the Pilot Program. In addition, the third party must be properly licensed with a State Department of Agriculture’s Industrial Hemp Pilot Program, and its activities must have a research purpose. Thus, a researcher is permitted to receive and perform research on such materials and products from parties with which it enters collaborative research-focused agreements.

Can UConn researchers perform hemp research funded by third party industries?

Yes, subject to certain UConn and Connecticut Department of Agriculture approvals. However, accepting funds coming from the marijuana industry or any business related to it is restricted due to current federal banking regulations.

Can UConn researchers perform hemp research in a paid or unpaid sabbatical situation in a foreign country whose laws permit industrial hemp research in any capacity?

Yes.

Can UConn researchers license intellectual property rights resulting from hemp research?

Yes.

Does the Connecticut Hemp Research Pilot Program allow research with marijuana?

No. Marijuana research is defined as research that involves the growth, production, procurement, administration, or use of marijuana. It does not refer to observational research for which the researcher does not grow, produce, procure, or administer marijuana. Marijuana has the same meaning as in the definition provided by Connecticut General Statues § 21a-240(29).

Marijuana is categorized as a Schedule I drug by the DEA under the federal Controlled Substances Act. This means that federal regulations do not permit the use, production, processing, sale, or growth of marijuana, except for medical or research use <strong>conducted under special licensing requirements established by the DEA</strong> and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) for use with humans or animals. Typically, research conducted under a DEA license also requires sourcing the marijuana from the NIDA. The U.S. Department of Justice’s (“DoJ”) previous guidance indicating that it will not focus its prosecutorial resources on the sale or use of marijuana in states where a well-regulated legal framework has been established was rescinded in 2018. To date, no exemption from the federal regulations has been granted to any state.

UConn is the recipient of considerable federal funding for research, education, capital projects, and healthcare. Accepting this funding obligates UConn to comply with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act and the Drug-Free Workplace Act. These federal regulations together prohibit UConn from unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of any controlled substance at the University. Unlike the DoJ’s stance on enforcement of DEA regulations, there has been no statement suggesting that enforcement of the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act or the Drug-Free Workplace Act has been, or will be, relaxed.

Consequently, despite the state of Connecticut’s legalization of medical marijuana, there is no provision that allows for the legal research of medical marijuana except as already established and involving compliance with DEA, FDA, and NIDA policies and regulations.

Where can I find information about courses or programs at UConn related to hemp?

The UConn College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources conducts courses related to hemp cultivation and production. Additional information can be found by searching the <a href="http://cag.uconn.edu/canr/index.php" rel="noopener" target="_blank">College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources web site.</a>

Is anyone at UConn involved in testing as part of the state Hemp Research Pilot Program?

The UConn Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering conducts testing as part of the Hemp Research Pilot Program. Additional information can be found on the <a href="https://cese.uconn.edu/hemp-initiative/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering web site</a> or by contacting the Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering Laboratory Director, Christopher Perkins by either email (christopher.perkins@uconn.edu) or phone (860.486.2668).

START Preliminary Proof of Concept Fund

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Dear Colleagues,

Through a generous grant provided by the CTNext Higher Education Fund last year, the Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) has been administering an early stage translational research funding program called the START Preliminary Proof of Concept (PPOC) Fund. Under the grant, funding is provided to investigators at Central Connecticut State University (CCSU), Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU), University of Bridgeport (UB), and UConn on a competitive basis.

The START program aims to support the preliminary validation of innovative early stage technologies that have possible commercial potential and is designed to advance those technologies to be more attractive for additional funding. Proposals for the START PPOC Fund are welcomed from across all disciplines for early stage projects that may one day result in inventions and technologies that address unmet needs and have potential for commercial application.

As we wrap up the first year on funding, I would like to take a moment to recognize recipients from these institutions and ask that you join me in congratulating them on their efforts to commercialize technologies developed in the course of their academic research. For a full list of recipients and project information, visit the OVPR website.

For more information about the competition, visit the program website.

Thank you for helping to foster the culture of excellence in your schools/colleges, departments, and centers that allows UConn faculty to engage in research, scholarship, and creative activities at the highest levels. 

 

 

Cheers,

Radenka

Celebrating UConn Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activities

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As we begin a new semester at UConn, I would like to reflect on our past academic year and share with you the excitement, successes, and progress we made in that time. As a public research university that engages globally in the creation of new knowledge, we measure our success by the impact of our scholarly and educational outcomes, research, innovation, and the creative work of our students and faculty. In the last few years, we have brought people together around shared goals across campuses and disciplines, an accomplishment that is palpable at UConn and has been critical to the success of our land-grant mission.Our three consecutive years of growth in total awards have borne out the value of our collective efforts.

Thanks to the tireless work of our faculty, postdocs, students, and staff, our new extramural awards for FY19 reached a three-year high of $266.2M. In FY17, our total new awards were $184.5M and in FY18, they were $258M. UConn Health received over $100M in new awards this past fiscal year reaching an all-time high. Our combined efforts represent a 44% increase over three years. We also saw upward trends in our entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem, with a record 39 high-potential startup companies joining UConn’s Technology Incubation Program, and a ranking of 93rd worldwide in the number of US patents issued for UConn inventions. It is a matter of great satisfaction for me to have helped position entrepreneurship and innovation as an equal mission for our faculty alongside teaching, scholarship, research and creative work.

Our committed focus on seed funding, proof of concept grants, and awards to support the arts and humanities has contributed to STEM and non-STEM excellence. In FY19, our office contributed $2.3M to internal funding programs and an additional $100K to support grant writing workshops and resources. We are thrilled to see engagement, collaboration, and distinction from all areas of the University, whether it be STEM, non-STEM, or a collaborative hybrid, and that these combined efforts are producing growth in research and extramural awards.

I would like to highlight a few new initiatives launched by the OVPR in FY19 that supported faculty success:

  • Convergence Awards for Research in Interdisciplinary Centers (CARIC): Support development of collaborative interdisciplinary teams to bid for major (>$5M) federally funded initiatives, such as research centers.
  • Support of UConn Human Rights Institute with two postdoctoral fellowships in collaboration with the Schools of Engineering and Business.
  • Program in Accelerated Therapeutics for Healthcare (PATH): In partnership with the Schools of Pharmacy and Medicine, aims to accelerate the translational pathway to convert discoveries into new medical therapeutics. The program seeks to quickly develop novel approaches focusing on well validated molecular targets for a specific disease area with an unmet treatment need in the current commercial marketplace.
  • Scholarship and Collaboration in Humanities and Arts Research Program (SCHARP): In partnership with the Humanities Institute, SCHARP supports innovative works in scholarship and creative activities in the arts and humanities that have the potential to transform a field of study, impact the common good, or chart a new direction in scholarly, creative, or artistic direction.
  • STEAM Innovation Grant: In partnership with the School of Fine Arts, STEAM encourages innovative collaborations between the arts and STEM disciplines. Projects funded by this grant may result in publications, exhibitions, performances, academic symposia, or other research outcomes.
  • Stamford Innovate, a new internship program that connects talented UConn students with opportunities in startups in one of the fastest growing regions of the state.

If you want to learn more, click here for a full list of our internal funding programs.

As educators, we all take great pride in our students’ successes, and I wanted to take a moment to recognize some new student projects that are truly remarkable. In collaboration with the Office of the Provost, the OVPR supported a student-led podcast called In Vivo. With regular interviews about science, the arts, current events, and other topics, In Vivo highlights the amazing faculty, students, and staff that give UConn life. The show is conducted out of UConn’s WHUS studio and is run entirely by UConn students. Check it out and consider subscribing for future episodes to learn more about UConn researchers.

Another new initiative is World Poetry Books to support its mission of publishing and vigorously promoting a minimum of six books of exceptional poetry in translation each year. This support offers our students the opportunity to gain hands-on, professional publishing skills, and establishes UConn as home of a preeminent publisher of exceptional world literature.

While sharing accomplishments is important, we also want to increase transparency and continue to maintain open lines of communication as we push to raise UConn’s research profile. In addition to sharing research and tech transfer metrics on the recently revamped UConn Research website, we encourage faculty and staff to reach out with suggestions regarding new opportunities and unmet needs. It is only together – as a team – that we will continue to drive the growth of scholarship, research, and creative pursuits at UConn.

I’d like to conclude with a personal note of gratitude. I cannot thank all of you enough for giving me the opportunity to work with so many talented, hardworking, and committed colleagues. To my staff, I am deeply honored to serve as VPR and grateful for your support, continued improvement, and service to our faculty and students. At the end of a hard day, I find great inspiration in the knowledge that UConn’s faculty and staff – whether they be musicians, chemists, or scholars of law or other disciplines – are some of the world’s most innovative and active researchers. Thank you for making UConn a special place with a vibrant community of caring, collaborative people.

We are opening a new chapter for UConn with a new President who is focused on our excellence, strengths, and new opportunities. I look forward to this journey with all of you, and please remember my door is always open!

Cheers,

Dr. Radenka Maric

Vice President for Research, UConn/UConn Health

Mouse/Rat Transport To/From Institutions Outside UConn Health

Purpose

Transportation of research mice and rats is often necessary to accomplish research goals.  Transporting from one location to another can be stressful to the animals and can increase the potential for disease transmission or injury.  A number of factors must be considered when transporting research laboratory animals that can impact on animal welfare and study parameters.  In addition, animals must be transported in accordance with applicable regulatory laws and guidelines.

The use of personal vehicles to transport animals is strongly discouraged; whenever possible a University-owned vehicle or commercial carrier should be used to transport animals to minimize stress and reduce the potential exposure to hazards.  However, the UConn Health Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) recognizes that the use of personal vehicles may be the only way to transport animals between institutions, especially between UConn campuses and to nearby locations.  UConn Health is not responsible for any damages to the private vehicle caused by the transport of laboratory animals.  This policy will outline requirements that must be met when using a personal vehicle to transport animals to/from UConn Health.

 

Action

General

  1. Transportation by personal vehicle must be described in the IACUC protocol and approved by the IACUC. This should include the destination(s), description of the car, identification of who will be performing the transportation, provision of food and/or water (or gel pack), an emergency plan (e.g., in case of accident, car breaking down, etc.) and a plan for disinfection of the vehicle after the transportation of the animals is completed.
  2. Any transfer or transport of animals from UConn Health requires the Center for Comparative Medicine (CCM) to be notified indicating the number of cages to be transported, animal room, and overnight stay (if applicable).
  3. Only research laboratory mice and rats may be transported by personal vehicle.
  4. Animals that have been treated with hazardous agents (i.e., biological, chemical, radiological) cannot be transported in a personal vehicle.
  5. Transportation must be immediate and direct; personnel cannot make stops during the transportation (e.g., stop for dinner). If a stop is necessary (e.g., restroom), animals should not be visible or left in direct sunlight.
  6. Animals should not be left unattended during transport.
  7. A current health certificate is required to bring animals to the UConn Health vivarium.
  8. If the animal is brought back to CCM, it will be housed in short-term housing or in quarantine for the remainder of its stay at UConn Health.

Animal Shipping Containers

  1. Containers used when shipping animals must be able to be sanitized, spill proof, prevent waste from falling outside of the container, secure and escape proof, provide adequate ventilation, have a solid floor, and be free of any sharp edges that could harm the animal.
  2. If animal housing cages are used, cage tops should be taped or otherwise secured to the cage; cages should be placed into a secondary containment container.
  3. Whenever possible, CCM recommends the use of transport containers – JAX Boxes (18x16x11) wherein the PI can house up to 10 mice. These transport containers can be purchased from CCM.  In general, JAX transport containers are securely tightened and have provision of clean autoclaved bedding, feed, and hydrogel pack.  If transport is to occur outside of UCH, transport containers MUST be used.
  4. Provision of feed and water during transportation can be problematic because of the potential for spillage. Small rodents lose heat more quickly than larger animals, require more calories per unit of body mass, and become dehydrated more quickly than larger animals.  Animals should be provided food pellets and gel packs during transportation.
  5. Animal containers must be secured into the vehicle via seatbelt, or other similar positive (not stretchable) restraint device (e.g., nylon straps tightened with a ratchet).
  6. Cages should not be stacked one on top of the other as this can decrease air circulation.
  7. Maximum number of cages to be transported is 2-4 cages or 2 JAX transport containers.
  8. Animals must be in the passenger compartment airspace of the vehicle (e.g., not in the trunk)
  9. Container must have an emergency contact name(s) and number(s).

Personal Vehicles

  1. Animals may not be transported by bus, shuttle bus, plane, or train.
  2. Vehicles must be inspected by the IACUC prior to first use and during the semi-annual facility inspection times if the vehicle is continually used for transport.
  3. Personnel requesting personal vehicle transport must provide a copy of a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance.
  4. Vehicles must have adequately working heating and air conditioning to provide an appropriate ambient temperature for the safe transportation of mice (4-30°C [37-91°F]) and rats (6-33°C [43-93°F]).
  5. Personnel transporting laboratory animals should be the owner of the personal vehicle to be used.

Personnel Performing Transport

  1. Personnel performing the transportation, other than employees of the Center for Comparative Medicine, must be UConn Health faculty members.
  2. Personnel must have completed training on transportation prior to transporting animals.
  3. A maximum of two (2) individuals can be in the vehicle when transporting research animals. Both must have current animal care and use training through UConn Health.
  4. Non-research personnel may not be in the vehicle when laboratory animals are being transported.
  5. There may be no eating, drinking, or smoking while transporting laboratory animals.
  6. Personnel performing the transportation must have a mobile phone with them during the transportation of animals.

Documentation

  1. Personnel performing transport of laboratory animals must maintain a log of transport. This long should contain the time animals were placed into the vehicle, the length of time of the trip, the mileage of the trip, and the time animals arrived at the final destination.
  2. Signatures must be acquired at the originating destination and at the final destination. Paperwork should evaluate the condition of the animals prior to the transport and upon arrival at their destination.

References

  1. The Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, 8th edition. National Academies Press, 2011.
  2. Guide for the Humane Transportation of Research Animals. National Academies Press, 2006.
  3. Transportation of Laboratory Animals: Proceedings of a Workshop.  ILAR, 2017.

 

Effective Dates:  June 5, 2025 through June 30, 2028

This policy has been approved by a majority vote of the IACUC members.

 

Faculty Affiliated Companies / External Entities

What is the purpose of this page?

Assistance with identifying University requirements, policies, guidance, and procedures, including State Code of Ethics laws, related to faculty affiliated companies /external entities

NOTICE: If applicable, please review the notice for Faculty Obligations related to Engagement in Outside entities identified as Faculty Affiliated Companies

Who should review this information?

 Faculty, staff, and students who hold a financial interest in, or conduct University activities with, a faculty affiliated company /external entity.

Why is this important?

Perceived or real conflicts may arise between University activities and activities of faculty affiliated companies /external entities. The University of Connecticut, its Regional Campuses and UConn Health (the University) are committed to fostering the entrepreneurial activities of its faculty and staff, in addition to its core missions of teaching, research and service. Consistent with its mission, the University encourages translational research, innovation and entrepreneurial activities. The University also is dedicated to ensuring transparency and compliance with University policy and State and Federal regulations.

Is everything I need to know here?

These pages are not an all-encompassing list of requirements, and members of the University community are expected to know and comply with all applicable University policies, and State and Federal regulations. In some cases, federal law and regulation will be stricter than State ethics laws and UConn policy, and such applicable portions of federal law will take precedence, while other aspects of State or University policy will remain in force. The federal and state regulations that govern these areas are complicated and these pages do not cover every situation that may need to be addressed. Therefore, the University recommends faculty, staff and students seek expert guidance in addition to adhering to the provided guidelines.

Who do I contact for more information?

The information available within these pages is also summarized in a Guidelines for Faculty, Staff, and Students who are affiliated with a Company document.  The University strongly encourages any University employee affiliated with a company or acting as a consultant for a faculty affiliated company to seek advice from the Office of the Vice President for Research, the Provost’s Office, the State Ethics Liaison, and the Procurement Services group.  The Office of University Compliance is also available to assist with questions relevant to University policies or State and Federal regulations.

Policies and Regulations

State of Connecticut Ethics Laws

University Guide to the State Code of Ethics

All University faculty and staff are subject to the Connecticut state ethics laws.  Connecticut State ethics laws are designed to prevent a state employee, his/her family, and any associated business(es) from benefiting personally from his/her position as a state employee. The guidance on Consulting Approval, Purchasing Goods or Services, Employment of Students, and Use of University Facilities/Resources, are intended to help the University community comply with state ethics laws and University policy.  While the University has developed its own policy based upon state ethics laws, the University Guide to the State Code of Ethics, the final authority to interpret and enforce these laws rests with the Office of State Ethics, an independent regulatory division of the state.

This policy includes several considerations related to conflicts of interest.

For guidance regarding individual situations, contact the Ethics Liaison.

University Policies

The following University policies are of particular importance for members of the University community who hold a financial interest in, or conduct University activities with, a faculty affiliated company.  Additional guidelines on these topics are available within this site.

Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct includes campus-wide standards on conflict of interest.

For guidance regarding individual situations, contact the Office of University Compliance.

Faculty Consulting Policy

This policy addresses when a faculty member is working for a faculty affiliated company in a paid or unpaid capacity, including as an employee, consultant, or advisor.

For guidance regarding individual situations, contact the Faculty Consulting Office.

Use of Students in Outside Employment

This policy addresses if a student is to be employed by a faculty affiliated company / external entity.

Financial Conflict of Interest in Research (UConn Health)

Individuals at UConn Health who are involved in University research as an Investigator must make full and timely disclosures of financial interests, including any financial interests with a faculty affiliated company / external entity, according to this policy.

Individual Financial Conflicts of Interest in Clinical Health Care Policy

This Policy on Financial Conflicts of Interest in Clinical Health Care promotes objectivity in clinical health care by establishing standards to reasonably ensure that the planning, support and delivery of clinical health care will not be biased by any conflicting financial interest of a Clinical Practitioner. This Policy applies to all aspects of clinical health care. While UConn Health encourages Clinical Practitioners to engage in appropriate outside relationships, all Clinical Practitioners must in accordance with this Policy disclose any significant financial interest (including those of a spouse or dependent child) that relate to the Clinical Practitioner’s institutional responsibilities and, if applicable, comply with any financial conflict of interest management or mitigation plans.