The Open Access Center (OAC) of the Life Sciences Center (LSC) was established in 2016 to enable researchers at VU LSC and other institutions to use modern equipment for research activities.
Life Sciences Center open access policy is based on Principles and Guidelines for Access and Related Services outlined in the European Charter for Access to Research Infrastructures.
The LSC OAC infrastructure is suitable for research and experimentation in biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology, genetics, neurobiology, molecular medicine as well as other research areas.
Key functions of OAC:
- Managing of LSC OAC resources:
- keep updated the list of OAC facilities,
- disseminate relevant information about OAC facilities,
- perform timely maintenance of OAC facilities, liaise with equipment suppliers,
- arrange for upgrades and repair of AOC equipment,
- submit applications to the VU Department of Science and Innovation for reimbursement of repair costs from the VU Strategic R&D Infrastructure Repair Fund,
- track execution status of applications.
- Searching for the customers who would like to use OAC facilities,
- Helping customers to get information about OAC facilities and services,
- Carrying out OAC service provision procedures,
- Preparing written agreements on the use of OAC facilities and services provided,
- Compiling documentation and reports on the use of OAC facilities and provision of services,
- Organizing webinars and other events for the presentation of equipment,
- Collecting, systematizing and analyzing of normative and methodological material required for OAC activities.
Services provided by OAC:
- Reservation of LSC OAC equipment for research and experiments,
- Consultation of Instrument Scientist,
- Assistance for document management.
Services provided by OAC can be used by:
- doctoral students, researchers, scientists or groups thereof,
- employees of research institutions,
- employees of business enterprises.