so you don't waste you opt time. Because you are working for the university or research institute, which means you don't need to worry about the quote limit.Half year is surely enough for your h1b process. Only thing you need to do is asking your department or international office to submit your application as soon as possible. If you still don't get anything back about two months before your opt is due, you can ask your department or IO to apply premium process (JiaJi),it is called I-907 form as I can remember, they should know that. It is about two week process time, of course you need to pay $1000.
Good luck!
