External Onboarding

To be completed after user agreement is approved.

Section Contents

These steps are only for external users who want full site access and operate independently in our facilities. 

Step 1: Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Training - Vanderbilt University

All users must complete the EHS Chemical Safety and Hazardous Waste Training. Click Here to access the training.

  • For the VU Department and VU Sponsoring Organization fields, select 'VINSE - Nano Institute.'
  • You are not required to complete the Biosafety 101 or Laser Safety training.
  • Email a screenshot of your course completion certificate to vinse@vanderbilt.edu.

Step 2: Lab Training

Complete the training only for the labs you intend to use.

Cleanroom

Analytical

Advanced Imaging & Specimen Prep

  • No orientation required; tool-specific training will be scheduled after completing all onboarding steps.

Step 3: iLab Account Set-up

iLab is used for tool reservations and billing.

  • Click here for instructions on setting up your iLab account.
  • Link your iLab account to VINSE: Find VINSE under "Core Facilities" and request access.

Step 4: Vanderbilt ID Card

A Vanderbilt ID card is required to access VINSE facilities.

  • Fill out the cardholder information section on the Card Services Form and email it to VINSE for a signature. The form will be reviewed, signed, and returned to you.
  • Email the signed form to the Commodore Card Office, including a recent photo and a copy of your driver's license.

Photo Submission Guidelines:

  • Must be in color (no black and white photos).
  • Your entire head and shoulders must be visible, facing forward, and looking directly into the camera.
  • A plain, light-colored background is required.
  • No other people or objects should be in the photo.
  • No hands, props, or other distractions touching your face.
  • No gestures or inappropriate facial expressions.
  • No hats, sunglasses, or jewelry that obstructs the view of your face.
  • Vanderbilt Card Services reserves the right to reject any inappropriate photo.

Your card will be sent to the VINSE office. We can mail it to you or have it ready for your first visit.

Step 5: Parking Permit

Visitors can park in the hourly paid parking at the 25th Avenue Staff Garage, 2401 Highland Avenue. These spaces are available 24/7 for short-term parking.

Contactless Payment Options (Powered by Park Mobile):

  • Download the Park Mobile app from the App Store or Google Play.
  • Scan the QR code on the parking signs.
  • Text "PARK" to 77223.
  • Call 877-727-5015 for those without smartphones.

Academic partners can email VINSE to request a memo for a discounted parking pass.

Finalizing Access Request

Users will gain access to the VINSE core facilities and be scheduled for tool-specific training once all required steps are completed.

Questions? Contact