SOP - Definitions of User Types

Research. Projects with a bona fide research goal are eligible to apply to use the facilities at the IRC. Projects need not be associated with the University of Texas System to qualify under this designation. However, all prospective research projects shall be described in writing before use will be authorized. Project descriptions shall include scientific justification for its theory, methods, goals, and viability for success. Project applications shall be evaluated by the Director for conformance to the IRC’s mission and the highest standards for scientific integrity and ethics, and approved at his/her discretion. The Director may solicit consultation from the Executive Committee or other peers to aid in the evaluation.
Education. Projects associated with purely educational goals are eligible to apply to use the facilities at the IRC. All the criteria for bona fide research listed above must be met, and the application process is identical. However, emphasis will be placed on the project’s fulfillment of the IRC’s mission during the approval process.
Commercial. External businesses may use the IRC for commercial use. The application and approval process is identical to that listed above for research, with the following additional requirements. The use must not directly compete with other local commercial interests as defined by the University of Texas at Austin’s facilities use guidelines. The use must not unreasonably expose the University, the IRC, or its staff to litigation. The use must pay the full external user rate for all time. If, at any time, the use of IRC facilities by a commercial interest is called into question for legal, safety, scientific, or ethical issues, the Director may revoke access privileges without notice and until such time s/he is satisfied that all outstanding issues have been resolved.