Biomedical Engineering PhD Candidate Computer Policy

Computer requirements are determined by your faculty research advisor.  Once you have joined a research group, you and your PI will decide on the appropriate machine for use during your PhD program.  This policy is intended to assist you during coursework and/or research-related writing. Desktop computers that require specialized software or performance due to research needs should be provided by your faculty PI.

Options:

1. Department-owned laptop 
   • Email the BME Office staff (Gwen Buchanan) to request a laptop computer.  Laptops remain in circulation for 4 years and are eligible for service from Tufts Technology Services free of charge.
   • These computers are standard-issue and may not fulfill specific needs of certain research groups.  Depending on our inventory, you may not receive a new machine.
   • BME staff will email TTS to have the machine set-up with your Tufts profile.  You must be available to meet with a desktop support technician to complete the imaging in-person.

• Computers and peripherals purchased through TTS are property of the University and must be returned upon the completion or termination of individual program/appointment.
   

2. Student-owned laptop reimbursement

• Laptop purchase must be approved in writing/via email by PI prior to purchase.
  • PIs will be retroactively charged for their student’s laptop reimbursement if the student exits the PhD program within the first 12 months of their degree.
• Purchase must occur no later than 3 months before/after the program start date (September 1^st).
• Receipt(s) must be submitted to the BME main office within 2 weeks of the purchase.
• One-time reimbursement of up to $500 towards the purchase of a new laptop computer and research-related software:
  • Peripherals (monitors, docking stations, keyboards, etc.) are not reimbursable
  • Any software receipts must be included along with your request for the laptop reimbursement; we will not process separate reimbursements
  • Combined reimbursement amount will not exceed $500

Students must provide a copy of all research-related data upon completion or termination of their individual program/appointment. This applies to research conducted on department-owned and student-owned laptops. 

Faculty PIs are responsible for supplying their research group staff members (postdoctoral scholars, research technicians, research associates, etc.) and research faculty members with computers.

The BME Department reserves the right to change or amend this policy at any time.