Research Liaisons: the next layer of Facilitation

Abstract

Research productivity has been greatly enhanced by Research Computing Facilitation teams to help researchers maximize their use of advanced cyberinfrastructure. However, researchers have more technology needs than just advanced cyberinfrastructure, such as data management and instrument device support. To address this, the Academic Engagement team in Michigan Medicine added Research Liaisons as another layer of human support on top of the Facilitation team. The Liaisons are relationship builders. They are assigned to departments to build deep relationships with them and start proactively addressing labs’ technology needs. They also build relationships with other teams, notably enterprise storage, enterprise networking, and research core facilities. These relationships allow Liaisons to provide a connective tissue between the researchers and IT teams.