New business model for the Office of Clinical Research

Beginning September 1, the Office of Clinical Research (OCR), which includes the General Clinical Research Center (GCRC), the Research Services Organization, and the Biostatics, Design, and Analysis Center (BDAC), will operate under a new project-based, fee-for-service business model that supports growth and investment in clinical and translational research at the University of Minnesota. As a result of changes in NIH strategy, the current financial model is no longer sustainable. The restructured model is designed to meet current and future demands and to embrace the opportunities presented by the NIH CTSA initiative.

How it works
Implementation of the new model is a step in anticipation of funding changes that will take place when the GCRC grant ends in December 2009.  As of September 1, all grant applications submitted through SPA must include a full budget for all OCR services required by the proposal. The fee-for-service model applies to new projects requesting OCR services after September 1, 2008. The University will continue to honor commitments made to currently funded projects and to projects that have already been approved and submitted to SPA. However, any renewal applications for ongoing projects must include a full budget for services. Operation under the fee-for-service model will inform future budget decisions and allow the OCR to adjust available services to best meet the needs of investigators. A listing of services and rates is available at www.ahc.umn.edu/ocr/services.
 
OCR pre-award services
OCR personnel are available to assist with project-specific budget estimates, as well as a full range of pre-award services, including study development, preparation for scientific review, and IRB approval.  For further information or questions, contact Debra Dykhuis at dykhu001@umn.edu or 612-625-4171.

The University of Minnesota remains fully committed to its tradition of successful, ground-breaking clinical research. This change in policy is designed to insure the financial integrity of clinical research services at the University and is critical to the continued success of UMN clinical research.