What is SIRC funding for?
SIRC advises the SOM Office of Research on spending Academic Enrichment Funds (AEF) on multi-departmental resources, such as shared equipment, new Core Services, or other resources used by several departments. It does not fund individual research projects or investigators. Applications serving only a limited group of investigators are unlikely to be approved.
What makes a strong SIRC proposal?
New Core Services must be novel and not duplicate existing campus services unless you show a clear, justified need. Established Cores requesting equipment upgrades or replacements are discouraged unless all alternate funding sources have been thoroughly pursued. All qualified SOM faculty should be able to participate in or use the proposed resource, so include a plan to educate and actively recruit users across departments in your application. Faculty from other CU Anschutz schools are also encouraged to use the equipment.
Is a Letter of Intent (LOI) required before the full application?
Yes. Email a one-page LOI to [email protected] by the posted deadline. It should outline the proposed project, its benefits to campus, and an estimated cost. If you miss the LOI deadline, you miss that cycle.
If I submit an LOI, am I automatically invited to submit a full application?
No. The committee reviews each LOI against current SIRC priorities, which can shift from cycle to cycle. If it isn’t a fit, no application will be requested for that cycle, and you are encouraged to try the next cycle. Declined applicants can request feedback on strengthening a future submission.
Is there a set dollar amount for SIRC awards?
No. Awards depend on need and the proposal. For equipment over $200,000, SIRC will consider providing AEF matching funds to support your NIH/NSF Shared Instrumentation Grant (SIG) application. If you are not pursuing a SIG, SIRC may make an exception if you explain why and commit matching funds of at least one-third of the equipment cost.
What does the full application need to include?
Your application must include:
- Proposal Document covering the equipment description, a full comparison to existing campus resources, an estimate of user base and need, and how the user community will access the equipment (4 pages)
- Budget and justification (1 page)
- Supporting documents, as applicable (vendor discounts, letters of support, other funding being pursued)
- If applicable, planned Shared Instrumentation Grant (SIG) application date and funding request (1 page)
Format: single-spaced, Arial 11 font, ½" margins. No appendices. Noncompliant applications will be returned.
If my SIRC award requires additional funding beyond what I originally proposed, what do I need to submit?
A modified table of user-base contributions is generally sufficient — new or modified letters of support aren't necessarily required. Confirm the preferred format with SOM Research Affairs.
How long are SIRC funds available for, and what's required afterward?
Funds are available for a one-year period, beginning after the approved award letter is sent to the PI and the award speedtype is established. If extensions are needed due to delays in manufacturing or ordering, please reach out to [email protected].
Does my SIRC award need a Fund 35 / speedtype setup?
The Office of Research will work with the SOM Finance Office to establish the award speedtype.
