Office of Research Policy Development

 

For All Inquiries:

Barry W. Stevens
Director, Research Policy Development
bstevens@gmu.edu
Tel: 703-993-3133
Fax: 703-993-8871

George Mason University
4400 University Dr.
MSN 3A2
Fairfax, VA 22030

Process for the Development of Research Policies

1. University research policies that transcend the responsibilities of a single unit are generally developed by ad hoc committees (policy development committees) that are chaired by the Director of Research Policy Development or, if that position is unoccupied, another senior member of the Office of Research. The committees include the Vice President for Research and other members of the Office of Research who have expertise in the subject matter to be addressed, the University Counsel, one or more members of the university faculty, and one or more Deans or Directors.
2. The objective of a policy development committee is to prepare a policy that takes into account the interests of all significantly-affected stakeholders. The committee operates by consensus wherever possible. Members of the committee are responsible for keeping their peers apprised of major issues to be addressed, obtaining the views of their peers on these issues, and conveying those views to the committee. In developing the policy, the committee also consults, as needed, with the Provost for policy guidance and with other members of the university community who have relevant expertise.
3. When the committee has completed the development of a policy, it is provided to the Deans and Directors for review. Senior members of the Office of Research brief the Deans and Directors on the policy when it is distributed. If comments require the policy to be reconsidered, the policy development committee reconvenes for that purpose and any revisions are then provided to the Deans and Directors for further review.
4. After review and approval by the Deans and Directors, the policy is provided to the Chair of the Faculty Senate for consideration by that body. Senior members of the Office of Research brief the Chair on the policy when it is transmitted.
5. After consideration by the Faculty Senate and review by the Office of Research of any advice that body provides, the policy is transmitted to the Board of Visitors or senior officers of the university, as appropriate, for adoption.
6. The approved policy is then forwarded to the Director of Internal Audit and Management Services for posting on the university's web site.