UMass Amherst has launched a first-of-its-kind online directory of campus research equipment, facilities and services (REFS). Currently, the directory contains more than 100 facilities and services categorized by equipment/ resource type, research/activity area, and availability. The UMassREFS.info database was designed to accommodate growth and stay current. Anyone can search this public directory and the campus community is encouraged to add or revise REFS entries at www.UMassREFS.info.
The directory provides a central access point for information about the extensive infrastructure of equipment, facilities, and services—many available to off-campus users—that supports UMass Amherst's world-class research programs. It will enable faculty members and other users to work more efficiently and will expand the capacity for research on campus.
The REFS directory addresses a key recommendation for enhancing interdisciplinary research made by the National Academies Committee on Facilitating Interdisciplinary Research. It also responds to requests from industry for a central source of information about campus research facilities and services.
To learn more about REFS and other research-enabling campus services, contact Loren Walker, Associate Director of Research Liaison and Development (RL&D), (413) 545-2706 or loren@research.umass.edu. RL&D works with the campus community and external partners to enhance the capacity for research at UMass Amherst by enabling and promoting interdisciplinary research initiatives that can benefit from industry and government participation.
RL&D is an office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Engagement, www.umass.edu/research.
