Provost Michael Kotlikoff and Vice President for Research and Innovation Emmanuel P. Giannelis issued the following statement on Feb. 2:

Since the early days of the pandemic, researchers from across Cornell have contributed to the global effort to combat COVID-19. Their search for faster testing, better epidemiological modeling, vaccines and treatments may help bring the pandemic to an end and prevent future outbreaks.

Members of our community have asked how they can help with this effort, and starting later this week, Cornell faculty, staff and students will have the opportunity to indicate their willingness to allow testing data and samples to be used by Cornell researchers. Strict procedures will be in place to protect confidential health information, providing information only for approved studies.

Beginning Thursday, Feb. 4, when you log into the Daily Check you will be shown a one-time pop-up window asking you to confirm whether you wish to participate or not. The “Optional Consent for Research Activities” window will prompt you to answer two questions. If at any time in the future you would like to change your answer(s), you will be able to do so in the Daily Check. Participating in research is strictly voluntary, and there are no requirements or expectations for involvement by students or employees. 

For additional information, including a list of frequently asked questions (for students and employees) about COVID-19 research at Cornell, please review the Daily Check FAQs on this topic.

On behalf of our entire community, thank you for considering participation in scientific discovery that will advance our knowledge of, and the response to, the COVID-19 pandemic.