Logo creation is one of the most difficult graphic design challenges. A logo must:
Communicate the brand accurately, succinctly, and memorably
Be legible with or without color
Be legible at any size
All three requirements must be met for a logo to be fully effective.
You may get a logo request when a group of researchers begins a new project. They got funding (congrats!), they're excited to get started, and they decide they need to have a logo. Actually, they usually don't need a logo. Here's why:
The project already has a logo: the logo of the umbrella institution (IARC, AK CASC, etc.).
Most projects are short-term and aren't worth the time and expense of a logo design, which can be weeks or more, including presentation and review. The hard-won funding is better spent directly on the project.
What many people think is a logo is actually more of a team symbol—something quickly made to put on a shirt or hat—and that's great! If you have extra funding for some fun artwork, go for it! However, as a true brand symbol, a logo is more expensive, serious, and lasting.
Logos are not Friday-afternoon projects; they are major undertakings that can last for weeks, from brainstorming to final design.