Disability & Research Safety Infrastructure (DRSI)
Working towards safer, more accessible research and creative practice spaces at U-M
The Disability & Research Safety Infrastructure (DRSI) Project is funded through the Office of the Provost’s Disability Scholarship Initiative, which supports research aimed at better understanding and addressing the experiences of faculty and staff with disabilities on the Ann Arbor campus.
Led by faculty in the Medical School, the DRSI project brings together researchers and Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) professionals to examine how disability accommodations are accessed and implemented in research and creative practice spaces.
Research labs, studios, and maker spaces are essential to teaching, discovery, and creative work at U-M. DRSI aims to strengthen the systems and practices that help ensure these spaces are safe, accessible, and welcoming for people with a wide range of needs.
What we’re working on
DRSI focuses on three core areas:
- Access: Making it easier to understand where to go and who to contact when accommodations are needed in research or creative spaces
- Safety: Identifying barriers in spaces, processes, and infrastructure that may impact safe participation
- Belonging: Supporting environments where faculty, staff, and trainees feel comfortable raising concerns and seeking support
Campus-wide survey coming soon
In early 2026, we will be launching a campus-wide survey for individuals who work in research labs or creative practice spaces.
The survey will focus on:
- Experiences navigating accommodations
- Awareness of available resources and processes
- Perspectives on safety, access, and support in these environments
Survey findings will help guide the next phase of the project.
Stay connected
More information about the survey and upcoming project activities will be shared here.
If you’re interested in learning more about the project or staying informed as the work progresses, please email us at [email protected]
