Maximizing Shared Research Resources: Next Steps

Area of Science:

• Biomedical research infrastructure
• Scientific resource management

Background:

• Shared research resources (SRRs) provide access to advanced technologies and training for researchers.
• SRRs enhance institutional reputation, fund utilization, and faculty recruitment/retention.
• They are central to multidisciplinary research, generating data as a key deliverable.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight efforts in strengthening SRRs.
• To address barriers hindering SRR sustainability and impact.
• To discuss career recognition and the elevation of team science.

Main Methods:

• Review of recommendations from the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) SRR Task Force.
• Analysis of outcomes from subsequent roundtable meetings.
• Compilation of contributions from the Association of Biomolecular Resource Facilities and FASEB Task Force.

Main Results:

• Efforts have been spurred to strengthen shared resources.
• Focus on achieving career recognition and parity for SRR professionals.
• Emphasis on elevating team science through enhanced SRR capabilities.

Conclusions:

• Barriers to SRR sustainability persist despite their accomplishments.
• A national strategy is needed to ensure the continued essential role of SRRs.
• Strengthening SRRs is key to advancing modern, multidisciplinary research.