Research Proposal Review & Checklist
Researchers should submit proposals at least four weeks in advance to study the serpentine grassland, and at least two weeks in advance for work in other communities. Preserve staff must approve all research proposals before work begins.
The Associate Director for Research carries out a review of applications to ensure that proposed projects will neither conflict with ongoing work nor compromise the integrity of the Preserve or the future health of its habitats.
Projects that involve experimental manipulations are reviewed on a case-by-case basis; in general, manipulations must be small in scale and/or effect. To lessen impacts to the serpentine grassland and other sensitive areas, research policies emphasize the use of less intrusive field markers and techniques, replacing them where possible by remote approaches.
Should the Research be Conducted at Jasper Ridge?
To conduct research at JRBP('O'O), the project must be reviewed under the following criteria.
The proposed research study will...
Contribute to fundamental scientific knowledge
The study will contribute to fundamental scientific knowledge through well-designed experiments whose results are intended for peer review and dissemination, or through the development of new scientific techniques.
Allow Jasper Ridge to be part of a bigger project involving other sites
The study will extend Jasper Ridge contributions by being part of inter-site comparisons or larger surveys, or by serving as a reference site for resource protection elsewhere.
Utilize Jasper Ridge in a compellingly beneficial way
For example, the study will further the conservation or education mission, diversify the scientific community, take advantage of site history or previous research, or enhance local support.
Expand knowledge by creating a repository or samples for future research
The study will deposit data to an accessible repository after a reasonable time, and/or will curate samples for future research value.
Have minimal detrimental impacts to Jasper Ridge
The study MUST have MINIMAL foreseeable detrimental effects on Jasper Ridge ecosystems, ongoing experiments, and educational activities.
Who Will Conduct the Research?
All researchers must agree to adhere to various compliance requirements. If the researcher is not a Stanford faculty member, additional requirements must be met.
Compliance Requirements (note: this is not an exhaustive list)
Federal (USFWS, USDA/APHIS, CDC)
State (CDFW: SCP, MOU)
Regional (e.g., Water Quality Control Board, NPDES)
Institutional: Stanford IACUC, BioSafety, etc.
Non-Stanford researchers must also adhere to the following:
If the research requires one single visit to Jasper Ridge:
- There is a single visit and no designated field site(s)
- A suitable guide is available
If the research requires multiple visits to Jasper Ridge and/or fixed sites within the preserve:
- The investigator agrees to a maximum 3-year approval. Any renewal will be subject to review.
- A Stanford faculty member will collaborate as co-PI or sponsor.
- The Jasper Ridge Faculty Director approves.
- The terms of student- or non-student Research Agreement are met, and the agreement is signed.
- The Associate Dean approves