Facilitation and Advancement of Science for Transitioning Research (FASTR)

Overview

Facilitation and Advancement of Science for Transitioning Research (FASTR)

FASTR is a process development tool whereby Doug Cuttell works with the principal investigator through the process of creating a project map (or flow chart). This map illustrates the pathway to collect the preliminary data required to submit for extramural funding, including the milestones required to get there. This serves the purpose of giving the investigator a tool to work through their plan to generate data for extramural funding.

What is a project map?

The project map (see a simple example below) is a 10,000-foot view showing the steps involved in order to obtain the preliminary data required for extramural funding (and publications). It also will show the integration of collaborators (if applicable) within your project plan. Project mapping is a process management tool that communicates a process, but it also allows the creator a different or supplemental way of organizing and managing research. It is especially helpful when the project plan may not be well defined.

Project mapping is not meant to lock you into a particular project direction; it is anticipated that results/observations may alter your original research plan. Also, some projects can be organized as phased projects, but for others it may not be appropriate. This can be determined when you meet with Doug. If you know what you plan to accomplish, a draft outline of this proposed research (completed beforehand) would be helpful in the discussion of creating a map. Likewise, if you find it helpful to write a proposal draft beforehand, you can do that.

Internal grant use

This is also used in the internal pilot grants application and review process. It allows the center a mechanism to make available funding based on attainment of identified milestones. And during the review process, the reviewer has an easy-to-read flow chart of the research process for understanding the research path to accompany the proposal.

Contact Information and Location

Doug Cuttell
Purdue University Institute for Cancer Research Managing Director
dcuttell@purdue.edu
765-494-5022