University of Houston

Lab Condition & Guidelines Project

Located near the heart of Houston, this public, tier one research university offers over 300 degrees and programs and award-winning faculty. In an effort to support future science faculty recruitment at the University of Houston, FOS engaged research stakeholders in the development of a custom rubric, utilizing our FOScore® KPI module, to collect discrete laboratory features and benchmark data in a comparative framework.

FOS conducted site walk-throughs to assess the physical condition of these laboratory spaces. We then organized and reported into categories, key performance indicators, and measures. The final tabulation was ranked using a UH developed percentile weighting to calculate each laboratory’s score using a red/yellow/green assessment scale. This provided insight to how laboratory inventory would best support future research and hiring needs.

This strategic assessment proved to be the catalyst for a significant influx of research dollars, paving the way for the recruitment of top-tier faculty at the University. Recognizing the critical need to bolster the institution’s research capabilities, the assessment meticulously identified key areas of strength and potential growth.

Armed with this invaluable insight, the University strategically aligned its research priorities with funding opportunities, effectively positioning itself as a hub for groundbreaking studies.

Description of Services: University Labs Facility Condition Assessment, Key Performance Indicators (Lab Suitability) Assessment, Facility Readiness Implementation, Facility Master Planning

Phase One included 377 laboratories across 17 buildings

Phase Two covered 614 laboratories across 9 buildings