What users need to do
To continue accessing LCI devices, all users must create an account in the MARE.
This applies to all user categories, including internal users, external users, students, and visiting researchers.
Register for MARE here: https://www.dbmr-mare.ch/mare
Download QuickGuideLCIforCustomers-PDF_eng.pdf
⚠️ Action required: All users must create a MARE account and rebook any required sessions before 1 March 2026 to avoid interruptions in access to LCI devices.
Important information for Lab Heads / Principal Investigators (PIs)
To ensure correct billing and provide usage summaries, all lab heads / PIs must also register for a MARE account.
After completing registration, PIs must email Ilker Yegit at ilker.romann@unibe.ch to request special user rights. These rights will grant PIs access to a detailed overview of device usage by their team members.
Booking devices in MARE
Within MARE, users can:
- View all available LCI devices
- Independently schedule device usage
- Book introductions and assisted sessions
Note: Device names remain unchanged in the new system.
Transition details
- OpenIris will be blocked for bookings starting 1 March 2026.
- No existing or future bookings will be transferred from OpenIris to MARE.
- Users are responsible for rebooking any sessions in MARE if they require access from March 2026 onward.
- For any difficulties related to creating an account please contact Ilker Yegit at ilker.romann@unibe.ch.
- For any issues related to devices and bookings, please contact Ekaterina Ivanova at ekaterina.ivanova@unibe.ch.
- We welcome any feedback on the new booking software and we are continuously aiming to improve it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to create a new account if I already use OpenIris?
Yes. OpenIris and MARE are separate systems, and all users must create a new account in MARE, even if they previously used OpenIris.
When will OpenIris stop accepting bookings?
OpenIris will be blocked for new bookings starting on 1 March 2026. Bookings for earlier dates can still be managed in OpenIris.
Will my existing OpenIris bookings be transferred to MARE?
No. Bookings will not be transferred automatically. Users are responsible for rebooking any required sessions in MARE for dates starting from 1 March 2026.
Who needs to register for MARE?
All users must register, including internal users, external users, students, and visiting researchers. Principal Investigators (PIs) must first create an account in MARE and be registered as a PI so that bookings can be made under their responsibility. Otherwise, they will not be selectable as a PI.
I have registered in MARE but I am not able to make bookings. Why?
In order for users to make bookings, their PI / lab head must also be registered in MARE. If your PI has not yet completed their registration and requested PI user rights, booking access for lab members may be restricted.
I am a PI /group leader. How do I get access to my group’s referring bookings?
After registering in MARE, please email Ilker Yegit (ilker.romann@unibe.ch) to request PI user rights. Once granted, you will be able to view detailed usage summaries for your team members.
What is a Uni-REF or Cost Center number?
The REF of Cost Center number (for billing) is used to correctly assign and bill device usage. Your PI / group leader will provide you with the correct reference number that should be associated with your project in MARE.
I see all devices, but for some I can only book a training or an assisted session. Why?
All users can see all LCI devices in MARE. However, independent usage can only be booked for devices for which you have already completed a training. For other devices, you must first book a training session in order to become an independent user.
Will device names or booking types change in MARE?
No. Device names remain unchanged, and users can continue to book independent usage, trainings, and assisted sessions.
I don’t currently have any bookings after February 2026. Do I still need to register?
Yes. All users must create a MARE account in order to make future bookings once OpenIris is blocked.
I want to book an LCI device for February 2026. Which platform should I use?
Bookings for dates up to and including February 2026 should be made in OpenIris.
I want to book an LCI device for March 2026 or later. Which platform should I use?
Bookings for March 2026 onward must be made in MARE. OpenIris will be blocked for new bookings starting 1 March 2026.
I am currently using MIC devices in OpenIris that are not part of the LCI. What happens to those bookings?
The switch to MARE only concerns devices that belong to the LCI and are located in the DBMR buildings. Other MIC devices remain bookable in OpenIris with no change.
