Frequently Asked Questions

Who can use the Shared Research Facilities?

The SRF is open to all researchers at WVU, and to researchers outside of WVU as well. There is no requirement that you be a member of any department, college, group or center to use the facilities.

What does it cost?

We are a cost recovery center, which means we charge only what is required to run the facilities. Our rates are available here. All WVU users pay the same rates.

I have an idea to make the SRF run better. Who do I tell?

Any member of the SRF staff is happy to receive input.

How do I find out what kind of equipment you have?

Our equipment can be perused by facility and by function.

Why is the Scanning Electron Microscope listed in the Cleanroom and Electron Microscopy Facilities?

The cleanroom charges on a per semester per user fee. Payment of this fee gives the user access to this microscope. Users wishing to access the SEM without using other instruments in the cleanroom can do some on an hourly basis through the EMF.

Why are rates different for WVU, WV, and External Users?

WVU and the State of West Virginia subsidize the WVU Shared Research Facilities. The state subsidy is available to all State-supported institutions, while the WVU subsidy is available to WVU researchers only. We are required to charge actual costs, including indirect costs, to external users.