For scientific research laboratories. Earn international recognition of your lab's commitment to research excellence, innovation, and scholarly achievement. A program of the American Research Foundation.
The Research Lab Accreditation (RLA) recognizes and validates the crucial role that research labs play in shaping the academic and industrial landscape. RLA accreditation extends to research centers, faculties, colleges, academic departments housing research divisions, and industry research units.
Earning the RLA accreditation validates your institution's dedication to research excellence and acknowledges the pivotal role that research leadership plays in driving innovation and scholarly achievement. It opens the doors to a community that promotes the highest standards in research leadership.
AIRGC certifies your lab's AI governance maturity — the natural companion to research accreditation.
Thoroughly review the RLA criteria and standards. Conduct an internal self-assessment against each RLA standard. Identify gaps, develop improvement plans, and compile documentation including strategic plans, research policies, output data, and evidence of research impact.
Confirm eligibility criteria including minimum research funding, faculty size, and institutional recognition. Complete the official RLA application form and attach all required supporting documentation. Submit the application fee.
IFPASA assigns a mentor and a peer review panel with expertise relevant to your lab's research focus. Collaborate to schedule the site visit. Host the panel for a comprehensive assessment including presentations, facility tours, and staff interviews.
The RLA Accreditation Committee reviews all evidence and issues a final decision: Accredited, Accredited with Conditions, or Not Accredited. A detailed feedback report with recommendations is provided in all cases.
Implement an action plan from the feedback received. Follow the renewal process every 3 years to demonstrate continued adherence to RLA criteria and ongoing improvement efforts.
Elevate your lab's status in the global academic and research community with a prestigious IFPASA accreditation.
Benchmark your research standards against international excellence and identify clear pathways for improvement.
Join a global network of leading research labs. Access exclusive resources and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities.
Demonstrate your lab's contribution to advancing knowledge, strengthening funding applications and research partnerships.
Contact IFPASA to request the RLA framework documents and begin your accreditation journey.