We are writing to announce the guidance has now been officially issued for
a staged return to on‑site research, scholarship, and creative activities.
Preparations can start today, June 5, for moving to Stage 2 of
research activities, which will begin on Wednesday, June 10. Stage 1
is where we are now, which is the limited research activities authorized on
March 26 under Gov. Inslee’s “Stay home, Stay Healthy”
directive. We expect to continue transitioning to additional, less-restrictive
stages as safety concerns and state directives allow while working toward fully
resuming all normal operations.
Principal investigators and lead researchers, with support from their normal
supervisory chain and central administration, are responsible for implementing
the Stage 2 guidance. Additionally, draft supplemental guidance specific
to human subjects research is currently being developed and will be issued when
completed.
Please read the specific activities that should be conducted during the
preparatory period.
Note that researchers must still continue to work remotely whenever possible.
We are taking an approach that builds on laboratory safety management, and of
course, the safety of all our faculty, staff, students, and research partners
remains our highest priority.
It is an exciting moment for WSU as we commence the return to on‑site
research. We would like to thank the many individuals involved in developing
this guidance—faculty, staff, students, administration, and other research
partners—including those who participated in the May 19 Research
Town Hall.
The Office of Research will continue to update the guidance as the COVID‑19
public health emergency evolves. Please continue to check Office of Research’s COVID‑19 web pages
for the latest information.
If you have additional questions, contact the Office of Research at
research@wsu.edu or 509‑335‑5238.
Thank you again for your support as we expand our research activities in a
safe and secure manner.
Sincerely,
Bryan K. Slinker
Interim Provost and Executive Vice President
Christopher J. Keane
Vice President for Research
