LaserNetUS Cycle 7 Opens with Enhanced Features and Migration to the Universal Proposal System (UPS)

SAN FRANCISCO, CA —  LaserNetUS is pleased to announce the opening of Cycle 7 for scientific proposals. This cycle brings several transformative updates aimed at streamlining the proposal process and expanding opportunities for researchers. Most notably, Cycle 7 introduces the Universal Proposal System (UPS), a major advancement in proposal submission, review, and allocation across leading scientific facilities.

About the Universal Proposal System (UPS)

The UPS is a collaborative platform developed by Argonne National Laboratory, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. This advanced system consolidates the proposal management process, providing users with a consistent experience across the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Science user facilities.

"UPS is designed to simplify the application process, giving scientists a consistent and efficient platform to submit, track, and manage proposals across multiple facilities," said Prof. Mike Dunne, Director of the Linac Coherent Light Source at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. "We believe this system will not only enhance user experience but also foster greater collaboration between institutions and research teams."

Seamless Registration with ORCID

UPS is fully integrated with Open Researcher and Contributor ID (ORCID), allowing researchers easy access using their existing credentials. Those without an ORCID can create one by visiting Register - ORCID. Additionally, we have prepared a Quick Reference Guide to assist you in navigating the new system efficiently.

Simplified PI/Co-PI Nomenclature

Starting with Cycle 7, LaserNetUS is also changing how investigators are classified, adopting the widely recognized Principal Investigator (PI) and Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) structure. This innovation encourages graduate students and postdoctoral researchers to apply as PIs, provided they have an experienced Co-PI for mentorship and project oversight. This forward-thinking approach ensures early-career researchers gain valuable leadership experience while maintaining the necessary supervision for project success.

Two Proposal Categories: Regular User Proposals & Joint Research Initiatives

Cycle 7 invites submissions in two distinct categories:

1. Regular User Proposals – These are investigator-led projects initiated by external researchers conducting independent research.

2. Joint Research Initiatives – These collaborative projects are proposed by a user PI in partnership with a facility Co-PI and are designed to create mutually beneficial research opportunities.

Each proposal type requires its own unique template and follows a specific evaluation rubric. To ensure smooth coordination, all collaborators must create a UPS account before submitting a proposal.

Workshop and Informational Opportunities

To assist applicants, LaserNetUS will host a variety of events:

• Proposal Writing Workshop: This event will be hosted by the LaserNetUS User Group on October 23, 2024, from 10–11 AM Pacific Time.
• Annual Town Hall: Facility Points of Contact (POCs) will share updates on technical capabilities during this event on November 14,  2024, from 10–11:30 AM Pacific Time.
• Weekly Office Hours: Beginning October 16, 2024, LaserNetUS will also hold virtual open office hours via Zoom on Wednesdays, 10-11 AM Pacific Time, to provide timely responses to any questions related to the proposal submission process, technical requirements, and more. Register here to attend a session or sessions.

Important Deadline

Researchers are encouraged to submit their proposals for Cycle 7 by December 16, 2024, by 4 PM PT. Access the Apply for an Experiment page for comprehensive information on the submission process, proposal templates, and submission details.

For further inquiries, contact our Coordinator, Dr. Chandra Breanne Curry at ccurry@slac.stanford.edu.