Research Continuity Update – Nov. 9, 2020
Dear University of Maine and University of Maine at Machias Colleagues,
I am writing to share with you an update on the University’s Plan for Phased Continuity of the Research Enterprise due the recent announcements by the State of Maine in response to the surging cases of COVID-19 in Maine and the nation.
We have been in Phase 3 of the Phased Research Continuity Plan since August 1st and are continuing in that Phase for the time being. I appreciate all the good work that everyone has done in conducting research while keeping the community safe, and I urge everyone to please remain diligent and continue with the work in keeping our community safe. Please continue to submit your new research activities through the request form and utilize UMSpaceSafe. This continuing process is necessary to monitor activity and to allow for planning in case circumstances change.
If it becomes necessary to move back to Phase 2, which is more restrictive, some previously approved projects will need to be halted until conditions improve. An email notifying all such projects of their phase designation will go out soon.
The response to COVID-19 continues to be a rapidly evolving situation even at this stage of the pandemic and this guidance is subject to change. Continue to regularly check the UMS Information page (https://www.maine.edu/health-advisory/) and the UMaine Information page (https://umaine.edu/coronavirus/). Please stay tuned for any changes as we review, with UMS the Governor’s latest EO and its implications for us.
Thank you for your patience during this time of uncertainty and for all that you do in service to our University, the State and beyond.
Best wishes and stay safe,
Kody Varahramyan
Vice President for Research and Dean of the Graduate School