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The Large-Scale Experimental Facilities Platform is focused on developing an NZinc approach to laboratory testing and achieving a sustained capacity for state-of-the-art experimental research. 

Key research thrust areas

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There are two key thrust areas in this Technology Platform: 

1. Training of research and laboratory personnel on advanced large-scale testing techniques and equipment. (Intended to build long-term capacity, not for students).
    
2. Development of resources and/or software to facilitate collaboration between laboratories and increase efficiency of operations within laboratories.

Overarching Principles

The three key objectives for this platform are

Sustained capacity for state-of-the-art experimental research

-      Move away from reliance on student skills and build sustained capacity in laboratories which is not lost as students graduate.

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-      This requires upskilling of current workforce in experimental facilities in New Zealand. This is achieved by a combination of training and new hires.

Development of a NZ inc approach to laboratory testing

-      Identification of capabilities and equipment in NZ labs. Requires a common platform for cataloguing equipment in all NZ labs.

-      Development of policies on sharing of lab space and equipment (including shared equipment which could be shipped to other labs). Requires consensus building through working group meetings.

Enable access to NZ and internationally unique lab facilities for QuakeCoRE projects

-      Experimental projects typically involve costs not borne by other projects. For example most labs require some user fees or charging of technician time.  This may require some funding for technician time (user fees) on QuakeCoRE projects in NZ labs.

-      Enable access through MoUs and collaborative project opportunities to unique international facilities

Personnel

The personnel plan for platform 1 is under development 

Key performance indicators

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