Terms of Reference

1. To keep under review, advise and make recommendations to the Academic Board on research strategy and related areas including:

- a research management system

- guidelines for undergraduate projects

- a vibrant research culture, and

- regional and international relevance of research

2. The three broad functions of the Research Committee are:

a) advising on the research direction and research strategy of the University, including advising on strategy for Research Assessment Exercises;

b) advising on the areas of research that the University should support actively;

c) monitoring the performance of areas receiving active research support.

3. The Committee will work closely with Deans, Centre Directors, Heads of School/Department, although it will be prepared to take a detached view, and not to become identified with sectional interests.

4. The Committee will have access to research plans and information relevant to research performance.

5. In its monitoring role, the Committee will receive regular reports via Directors and Heads from areas receiving support.

6. The Committee will also consider and report on any matter referred to it by the Academic Board or the President.

7. The Committee will report the outcome of its evaluation of the reports to the Academic Board.

The Committee may not further sub-delegate any of its functions.

Membership

- Chair of the Committee: the chair/deputy chair of the Academic Board

- Director, Graduate Studies & Research

- Director, Technology Innovation Centre

- Five (5) persons, one from each Faculty, appointed by the Academic Board on the advice of the Chairman, and taking into account the following factors:

• high personal standing in the University in research

• current research activities

• University-wide perspective (if possible supported by evidence)

• collective experience or expertise in working with the major granting bodies

• collectively embracing all types of research activity within the University

• reflecting the broad disciplinary clusters across the University

- Three (3) External members co-opted from the wider community. Persons external to Jamaica who fit the criteria may also be considered

• have a proven track record in industry, research, business or a particular professional discipline

• able to foster the aims of the University with respect to research and the Terms of Reference of the Committee

• proven track record and excellence in a particular technical or professional field

• Membership is for 2 years with an option of renewal for a further 2 years

- A quorum of 50% is required at each meeting when the external members begin sitting on the Committee.

Secretariat

Office of Research and Graduate Studies

Frequency of Meetings