Contact Us
For questions or more information, please contact Kamil Tamimie, Sr. Assistant Director, Training, Outreach, and Data Management.
SPaRC Spotlight: Research Security in the Headlines - Breaking Down Real Cases
We’ve all seen the headlines. Now let’s talk about what’s behind them. The Office of Research Security will explore real-world cases that have shaped the research security landscape and discuss how these situations developed. Along the way, we’ll cover practical best practices, institutional safeguards, and the latest federal updates so you can better support your faculty and units.
Presenters:
| Tuesday, May 5, 2026 | 1:30 - 3:00 PM |
Zoom: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/82311819782?pwd=RT9Z1lxYP98VJzY5ZZkZADAJYAOalE.1 |
SPaRC Spotlight: Making Connections
This Spotlight presented by Caryn Bills, Associate Chancellor in the UIC Office for Access and Equity (OAE) will emphasize proactive strategies to strengthen workplace culture through communication, civility, emotional intelligence, and psychological safety. Caryn will highlight the cost of unresolved conflict and will introduce Dispute Resolution Services (DRS) as a voluntary, confidential mediation process designed to address concerns early, prevent escalation, and promote healthy working relationships. The overall focus centers on fostering an equitable, respectful, and psychologically safe environment that enhances collaboration, reduces grievances, and supports institutional effectiveness.
Presenter:
| Wednesday, May 20, 2026 | 1:00 - 2:30 PM |
Zoom: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/84936646957?pwd=QsIoFlAvvJQid0p5cFjypuwwrAWmmC.1 |
The SPaRC Quarterly Meetings provide a platform to exchange and disseminate information related to the support of the sponsored portfolio to central and departmental administrative staff.
| Thursday, June 25, 2026 | 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM |
NCSA Auditorium 1205 W Clark St., Urbana |
The SPaRC Annual Retreat is a chance for research administrators from across campus to come together to connect, learn, and celebrate their important role in advancing the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s research mission. The day features guest speakers, plenary sessions on emerging initiatives and policy updates, and afternoon breakout sessions covering a range of sponsored project topics. Breakfast and lunch are included.
Registration for the 2026 SPaRC Retreat will open in August. If you have questions please contact Kamil Tamimie (tamimie@illinois.edu).
| Friday, September 11, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM | Illinois Conference Center |
For questions or more information, please contact Kamil Tamimie, Sr. Assistant Director, Training, Outreach, and Data Management.