Projects begin: Spring 2024

Introduction and Purpose

The RDT works with SFU-lead research projects to develop custom software and platforms, using development best practices to help accelerate research outcomes. The Software Development team members are supported by the Systems Analyst team who are experts in the field of automation and system administration.

The RDT is a cost-recovery service. We typically work with researchers who have existing funding to develop software and platforms for their projects. To expand our services, we are issuing this call for proposals. It consists of two streams: 1) provision of 60 hrs of bootstrap, no-cost development support for new projects applying for grant funding, and 2) 60 hrs of no-cost development support for new clients with funded projects.

Researchers who want to access development support from the RDT can submit a proposal to the team using the form below. Proposals will be assessed based on the feasibility of the project, technical resources available within the RDT, and the capacity of the team. As paying clients are our priority, we will only accept a limited number of proposals – and will prioritize new clients.

Projects which are chosen for support will receive 60 hours of development time from the RDT. After this initial time, projects are expected to cover the costs of additional development time.
Costs for additional development time can be discussed at any time before you submit a proposal and will be based on per-hour software development time plus standard RDT costs for RCG virtual machines and storage. More information about the costs of storage and VMs can be found on our website: https://www.rcg.sfu.ca/subjects/cloud-computing/pricing/.

Eligibility: The Software Development Program is open to all SFU researchers who can hold research funds (see https://www.sfu.ca/research/researcher-resources/precursors-research/funding-eligibility#applicant-eligibility for more information). We welcome researchers from all disciplines.

How to Apply:

1. Complete the project proposal form below and email it to rcg-devteam@sfu.ca
2. If your proposal fits within the scope, technical capabilities and capacity of the RDT we will contact you for a consultation to plan the project scope, timelines, and cost (if applicable).
3. We will draw up a project charter for you to sign that will include all details of the project, the scope of work from the RCG Development Team, along with roles and responsibilities.
4. We start your project!

Download Proposal Form

Microsoft Word Document (.docx) || Portable Document Format (PDF)