Conduct of Research at AUB during the Ongoing War
A Position Statement by the Office of Research at AUB
The American University of Beirut (AUB) has a long-standing tradition of innovative, collaborative and impactful research. Since its founding in 1866, AUB has overcome numerous serious crises (wars, famine, pandemic, economic) that helped shape its resilience. Today, AUB is ranked among the top research institutions in our region with several programs enjoying top rankings globally.
Currently, Lebanon is again experiencing war, and questions have arisen about AUB's ability to sustain its research enterprise. The answer is yes, we can, and we will. The university remains fully operational and has not been physically affected by the conflict. After prioritizing the safety and well being of their team members, our researchers have been working on adapting their research processes and methods, and identifying creative solutions for logistical and technical challenges. Many are drawing on the support of their international partners and networks.
The AUB Office of Research has been working on business continuity, the smooth administration of grants and contracts, and continuing compliance with its standard policies and procedures. We have reached out to our investigators to ensure they have contingency and mitigation plans in place. We have been working with the Human Resources Department, Institutional Review Board (IRB), Office of the Comptroller, and Procurement and Contracts Administration (PCA) on increasing the efficiency of our processes. Ethical and research committees are carrying on with their functions, and research capacity strengthening programs have switched to either hybrid or online delivery. It is also important to note that financial operations are not affected as we rely on the university's bank accounts in the United States.
As one of our distinguished researchers said, “we are a living lab". So beyond ensuring research operational continuity and improving our operational agility, the research community at AUB started exploring the role of research in this crisis and how to turn adversities into opportunities. Examples include researching the concept of 'research resilience', documenting the impact of the war on the different sectors, and on the well being of vulnerable groups.
AUB remains steadfast in its commitment to scholarship and producing high-quality, relevant, and impactful research in the global south. The AUB research community also appreciates more than ever the support of its funders and partners and will continue to serve our respective missions.
.