Starting a Project

In Lab Users

  1. The first step to getting involved in our lab is to contact our director Dr. Douglas C Hopkins ([email protected]) or Laboratory Manager ([email protected]).  We will work with you to determine the feasibility of using our laboratory resources for your project.   We approach all proposed projects with an open mind, and are happy to provide help and assistance with developing the scope of your project.
  2. The Laboratory Manager will then provide you with the proper paper work to begin your project.  You must fill out a PREES Lab Description form to explain in writing what it is you want to do, and what you are hoping to accomplish with your project.  In addition to the project description form you must also fill out a Plan of Procedure which will explain the processes you want to run in our lab, and the specific equipment and materials you would like access to.    Both of these materials will need the approval of the Lab Director before work in the lab may begin.  If you need any assistance in filling out these forms; the Lab Manager is willing to help, and able to advise.  If you require any assistance from our students then at this point that will be discussed.
  3. Once the proper paperwork is available to the Lab Director, then the usage fees will be worked out on an individual project basis.   Costs are decided based on the resources and in lab time you require.  If you are an NC State Student then you will need a Project ID #.
  4. When costs have been decided then you will be asked to sign a contract explaining to terms of laboratory use, and project schedules.
  5. The last step is to attend an orientation for in lab use.

Remote Users 

  1. The first step to getting involved in our lab is to contact our director Dr. Douglas C Hopkins ([email protected]) or Laboratory Manager ([email protected]).  We will work with you to determine the feasibility of using our laboratory resources for your project.   We approach all proposed projects with an open mind, and are happy to provide help and assistance with developing the scope of your project.
  2. The Laboratory Manager will then provide you with the proper paper work to begin your project.  You must fill out a PREES Lab Description form to explain in writing what it is you want to do, and what you are hoping to accomplish with your project.  In addition to the project description form you must also fill out a Plan of Procedure which will explain the processes you want to run in our lab, and the specific equipment and materials you would like access to.    Both of these materials will need the approval of the Lab Director before work in the lab may begin.  If you need any assistance in filling out these forms; the Lab Manager is willing to help, and able to advise.
  3. Once the proper paperwork is available to the Lab Director, then the usage fees will be worked out on an individual project basis.   Costs are decided based on the resources and number of lab staff necessary to complete your project.
  4. You will be asked to sign a contract agreement for lab usage to begin.  The contract will explain the details of your project, and cost basis of your bill.

Undergraduate Students

The PREES lab is open to undergraduate student projects, however they must be advised by a graduate student.  In order to start an undergraduate project contact the Lab Director ([email protected])  or Lab Manager ([email protected]).  They will advise you on the feasibility of your project, and can help to lay out and timeline and scope for your project.  Generally costs for undergraduate students are highly reduced or none, but this is dependent upon the resources needed for the project.

Undergraduate students are required to fill out Project Description Forms, and attend a lab orientation.  Once the proper paperwork is filled out then the student will be given a schedule for lab access.