CTSI continues to serve the research community, but has temporarily transitioned to virtual research support. We are doing this to adhere to University of Minnesota guidance surrounding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
CTSI services and resources continue to be available, and you can still reach us via phone (612-625-2874) or email at [email protected]. CTSI employees are working remotely.
However, we have made some changes to how we operate. The environment is changing rapidly, but following are the impacts to-date:
- Biostatistical support: You can continue to request support from the Biostatistical Design and Analysis Center (BDAC) via the CTR Portal, but please note this requires a VPN connection if you are off campus. How to install and use VPN.
- Clinical Research Support Center: Has transitioned to virtual research support. You can connect with the CRSC via phone (612-625-4000) and email ([email protected]), including to coordinate access to virtual office hours. Business hours have shifted slightly, to 8am-4pm.
- Clinical trial monitoring: Has transitioned to remote monitoring only. Monitors will review all study materials that they are able to access remotely. They will complete their in-person review of non-electronic documents and finish visits when normal University operations resume. Monitors will be contacting study teams that have visits scheduled during this time to discuss logistics. For questions, please contact Kelly McCormick at [email protected] or your assigned monitor.
- CTR Portal: You can continue to use the CTR Portal off-campus, but please note this requires a VPN connection (please see: how to install and use VPN). If you have issues using the VPN, please contact the Technology Help Desk.
- Informatics and data access:
- Providing virtual support only. Consultations with the Best Practices Integrated Informatics Core (BPIC) will be held via Zoom, and the team continues to be reachable via its usual channels. To connect with the team, you can submit a request, schedule an appointment, or email [email protected].
- UMN researchers can now access high-quality COVID-19 patient data for their research, thanks to a COVID-19 Registry from CTSI.
- Specimen support: The Biorepository and Laboratory Services (BLS) sunrise plan has been approved and BLS has resumed some operations.
- BioNet specimen procurement will be on-site to collect specimens from cases that are part of ongoing clinical trials. Unfortunately, BioNet is not able to consent patients for targeted collections during this initial stage. We are exploring alternative methods of consenting, such as universal consent and remote consent.
- The BLS repository staff will be on-site for specimen management as needed.
- The BLS histology lab will be resuming 50% of their operations.
- Training for clinical research professionals: Translational Workforce Development has pivoted its programs, including the Clinical Research Professional Development Series and Foundations for Research Professionals, to online/virtual.
We will continue to monitor, assess, and communicate any changes to our operations. You may also find it helpful to refer to this COVID-19 guidance for the research community from OVPR.
Thank you for your support as we work to keep our community safe.