It's hard to believe how quickly things changed in early 2020. The world, and certainly the research community, found itself in uncharted territory with the emergence of COVID-19. Amidst this global upheaval, institutions like Emory University were tasked with a dual mission: to contribute vital research to combat the pandemic while simultaneously ensuring the safety and continuity of their ongoing scientific endeavors.
I recall reading updates from Dr. Robert Nobles, Vice President for Research Administration at Emory, during this period. His messages, often shared through internal newsletters, painted a picture of an organization grappling with immense challenges but also demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability. What struck me was the focus on data and operational metrics, even as the world felt like it was spinning out of control. An internal dashboard was being used to track key indicators, and surprisingly, despite the obvious disruptions, new submissions, awards, and expenditures for March and April of 2020 were holding steady, even surpassing previous years in some aspects.
This wasn't just about numbers, though. The Office of Research Administration (ORA) was actively working to streamline processes and improve efficiency, shifting from a 'ramping down' phase to actively planning for a 'ramping up' process. This transition was approached with a clear emphasis on coordination and compassion, acknowledging the human element in such a stressful environment.
Getting back to the lab, for instance, required a carefully orchestrated plan. The Environmental Health and Safety Office (EHSO) and ORA collaborated to develop requirements and guidance for a phased return, emphasizing lower density in labs. This included mandatory training for all research personnel, covering everything from disinfection protocols to the critical importance of social distancing and communication methods, like virtual buddy systems, for those working alone. It was a stark reminder of how fundamental safety measures, often taken for granted, became paramount.
What also stood out was the swift action taken to expedite COVID-19 related studies. By January 2020, a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for a Rapid Response Team was finalized, aiming to secure necessary approvals across the Emory system within a remarkable 48-hour window. This kind of agility, born out of necessity, showcased the dedication of the research administration teams and their commitment to facilitating critical scientific progress during a global health crisis.
Reading these accounts, you get a sense of the immense effort involved behind the scenes. It wasn't just about the scientists in the labs or the doctors on the front lines; it was also about the administrative backbone that supported them, ensuring that research could continue, adapt, and ultimately contribute to finding solutions. It’s a testament to the collaborative spirit and the dedication of individuals working tirelessly to navigate these unprecedented times.
