"UW researchers shall pause field research starting now and extending at least until July 30, 2020. Approaching that time, a reassessment will be made based on the evolution of our understanding of the COVID-19 situation."
Research never truly stops. New findings are published each day, scientists are working in the field and running samples in the lab, and discoveries are being made. The University of Wyoming released an email several weeks ago announcing their postponement of field research through the end of July. But how can any scientist truly just stop?
The answer? They can't.
Field research may be on hold, but students, faculty, and community scientists alike are continuing to press forward with their research in any manner possible. Showing true grit, and a passion for their diverse STEM fields, individuals are beginning to crunch data and work on samples that were collected prior to the pandemic. According to the email received from UW,
"Evaluation of a detailed plan that addresses how the CDC guidelines on social distancing and disinfection will be applied to ensure the safety of students
and faculty."
The community is working together to ensure proper safety guidelines are in place as students and faculty alike continue to muddle through the re-writes of their original research proposals. All the while, they are continuing to fight for time in the lab to work on their samples and run their data.
Wyoming EPSCoR is doing their part to come up with a plan to move much of their summer research ventures online to maintain connection with their community. Working together with the university, a plan will come together to ensure scientists, researchers, students, and community members are supported during this crazy time. Summer research plans may be put on hold, but no one is giving up.
The future is wildly uncertain, but one thing is unchanging.
Research doesn't stop. Neither will we.
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