Research Micro Fund
SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION
PURPOSE
This document details the rules and procedures in the approval of the Research Micro Fund.
SCOPE
This unit rule applies to staff intending to apply for SSRG.
DEFINITIONS
Word/Term
ADR
FBD
FLC
FECS
KRA
IP
MoA
MoU
RC
RCO
RMF
SSRC
Definition
Associate Dean (Research)
Faculty of Business and Design
Faculty of Language and Foundation
Faculty of Engineering, Computing & Science
Key Research Area
Intellectual Property
Memorandum of Agreement
Memorandum of Understanding
Research Committee
Research and Consultancy Office
Research Micro Fund
Swinburne Sarawak Research Centre
CONTEXT
Name
Research
Location
Sarawak
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SECTION 2 – RULES & PROCEDURES
UNIT RULES
1.
Introduction
1.1
The Research Micro Fund (RMF) aims to provide quick support to acquire items for research
activities which would otherwise lead to lengthy project delays and missed opportunities.
1.2
RMF also encourages staff to explore niche research focus within the Key Research Areas
(KRA) and develop proof-of-concepts for subsequent research grant applications.
1.3
RMF is not meant to support an entire research project and should only be used to support
vital activities under the project in the event that all other means of support have been
exhausted.
2.
Key Performance Indicators
2.1
The following are the key measurements used to evaluate the success of RMF:
a. research outcomes (publications, creative works, IP and awards)
b. number of funded research projects externally and internally
c.
number of external collaborations with industry, government and other
institutions established
2.2
The performance of the RMF will be reviewed annually by the RCO and presented to the RC.
3.
Allocation
3.1
Each faculty, including research centres, is allocated a percentage of the total funds available
for RMF according to:
FECS = 40%, FLC = 20%, FBD = 20% and SSRC = 20%
However, the RC has the right to award otherwise.
4.
Application
4.1
Application may be submitted at any time. Each application is only for one or a set of related
items capped at RM3,000.00.
4.2
To apply, form RMF_A should be used and submitted to the Associate Dean (Research)
(ADR) for endorsement. The form will then be forwarded to the RCO Director for approval.
4.4
The applicants must be a full-time staff member of Swinburne University of Technology
(Sarawak Campus). Contract staff whose contract expires within a year of application date
are not eligible to apply.
4.5
RMF can be applied for project which is funded by existing grant but a justification must be
included on the for RMF_A.
4.6
RMF can also be applied for project which relates to the applicant’s postgraduate studies.
4.7
More than one RMF can be applied for the same project.
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5.
Assessment Criteria
5.1
The application will be assessed based on the:
a. Objectives
Clear project objectives. Projects within the University Key Research Areas are
preferred.
b. Importance
The necessity of the item for the project, the implications of not having the item and
how the item adds to the research capability of the applicant and his or her research
group.
c. Expected outcome
Publications in top tier journals, high quality research works, delivery of proof-ofconcepts or preliminary results for the application for external research grants,
establishing external relationship through MoU or MoA, development of niche
research areas and successful research project completions.
d. Track record
Applicant’s previous successes in research projects.
5.2
The applicant and ADR should check if there is any suitable alternative to the requested item
which is available at the University.
6
Items Allowed
Each application is only for one or a set of related items capped at RM3,000.00.
6.1
Vote 11000 - Wages
For internal appointments, the wages should be in accordance with Appointments Policy &
Procedures. This does not cover the support for postgraduate students.
6.2
Vote 21000 - Travel
This pays for all travels related to the research project, excluding conference travel but
inclusive of networking meetings.
6.3
Vote 24000 - Rental
This pays for the rental of laboratory or office space outside of the University, equipment and
transportation to conduct research.
6.4
Vote 27000 - Research Materials
This pays for consumables, small tools and samples.
6.5
Vote 28000 - Maintenance and Minor Refurbishment
This pays for the maintenance of equipment and minor laboratory refurbishment.
6.6
Vote 29000 - Professional Services
This pays for honorarium, printing, consultancy and other professional services.
6.7
Vote 35000 - Equipment
This is for acquiring specialized equipment and accessories. Purchase of computer and / or
laptop is not allowed unless they are absolutely crucial for the project.
5.
Evaluation
5.1
ADR shall review the application and state his or her recommendation on the RMF_A form.
5.2
RCO Director shall review and approve the application by signing the form. RCO Director
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may request the assistance of additional and external reviewers to evaluate the application.
5.3
Once the form reaches the RCO, it will normally be processed within 3 working days.
5.4
The approval is solely the prerogative of the RCO.
6.
Notification
6.1
Once approved, the RMF_A form shall be returned to the applicant. The approved form
should be attached together with the other documents used for raising purchase order for the
item.
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