CYTO 2026 Scientific Tutorial: Navigating SRL Recognition: How to Prepare Your Application

Navigating SRL Recognition: How to Prepare Your Application

Presenters:
Jessica Prieto-Chavez, MSc, Co-Coordinator of the Cytometry Network of the Health Research Coordination, Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS)

Abstract:
The ISAC SRL Recognition Program is a cornerstone initiative to promote quality, reproducibility, and sustainability in shared resource laboratories (SRLs). As participation grows worldwide, many applicants seek clearer guidance on how to prepare strong, well-documented submissions.

This tutorial provides practical, evidence-based insights drawn from real applicant experiences and reviewer feedback. Presenters will highlight common challenges encountered during the Recognition process, typical strengths and weaknesses observed in evaluation reports, and concrete strategies that have helped SRLs achieve success.

Through presentations and an interactive discussion, participants will learn how to:
- Interpret ISAC’s expectations at each application stage.
- Identify internal documentation and quality practices most valued by reviewers.
- Avoid frequent pitfalls that delay or weaken submissions.
- Apply lessons learned from recognized SRLs of different sizes and organizational structures.
- Recognize the tangible and long-term benefits of applying for SRL Recognition — including improved documentation, standardized procedures, and enhanced visibility within the community.

Ultimately, attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how to plan, structure, and execute their SRL Recognition applications—while also strengthening their lab’s internal processes and culture of continuous improvement.

Learning Objectives:
Describe the structure and evaluation criteria of the ISAC SRL Recognition process.
Recognize common challenges and recurring feedback themes from reviewer reports.
Apply proven strategies and documentation practices that strengthen an SRL Recognition application.
Evaluate their own lab’s readiness and identify steps for sustained quality development beyond application submission.

Keywords: Management, Training and Education, SRL Recognition Program

CMLE Credit: 1.5