Dear colleagues,
Last year, we announced that Huron Consulting Group, the company that provides our eResearch platform, will be sunsetting the platform in 2031. We write with an update on our efforts to migrate U-M’s research administration systems by that time. Your input and engagement are central to this process.
Since our announcement last year, our project team has focused diligently on gathering information and engaging the campus community. Milestones include:
- Documenting our current eResearch systems functionality and business requirements.
- Consulting with our current vendor’s Higher Ed community group and advisory groups.
- Exploring market-leading research administration software vendors.
- Engaging with key campus research administration partners and leadership.
- Conducting a campus-wide user survey, followed by analysis to shape our next steps.
- Benchmarking with peer universities.
- Completing a Request for Information (RFI) process, including an initial fit-gap analysis and assessment of demonstrated vendor capabilities.
This input has led to the development of a robust Request for Proposals (RFP) packet, which is scheduled for release in early 2026.
Upcoming RFP Phase
The RFP is a competitive process to select new products and partners for our research administration systems. Here is what to expect:
- Winter 2026: RFP packet issued to vendors; highest-ranking vendors will be invited to present their solutions
- Spring 2026: Evaluation of top vendors for each product category (e.g., COI, Grants, IRB, IBC, IACUC, etc.)
- Summer 2026: Selected vendors will complete proofs-of-concept, with campus focus groups providing input
- Fall 2026: Finalist selection and preparations for implementation projects, which will begin in 2027
Additional information and FAQs are available on the eResearch Replacement project website.
As we move forward, there will be additional opportunities for the community to participate through feedback sessions, focus groups, and more. Your expertise will remain vital, and we are eager for your continued involvement.
We appreciate your ongoing partnership, dedication, and commitment to research excellence at U-M. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to the project team at [email protected].
With gratitude,
Ravi Pendse PhD
Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer
Arthur Lupia PhD
Vice President for Research and Innovation