PI Responsibilities

1.   Develops an over-all plan for the commitment of Sponsored Project funds, working with the authorized person(s) in the college, department or center and consults other University officers as appropriate.

2.    Approves all expenditure requests to be charged against the Sponsored Project account.

3.    Reviews with the appropriate college, department, center or central administrator expenditures of Sponsored Project funds to assure:

a.    That funds are used only for purposes directly related to the activity supported and that these funds are reasonable, allowable, and allocable as defined in OMB Circular A-21.  OSP and departmental administrators can provide additional information and understanding of OMB Circulars as necessary.

b.    That expenditures are consistent with all special terms, conditions, or limitations applicable under the particular Sponsored Project.

c.    That expenditures do not exceed the total funds authorized for a given period under the Sponsored Project.  In many cases, the Sponsored Project may also specify expenditure limits by budget category or line item.  It is understood that management, administrative, and system situations may occur where expenses exceed revenue, therefore, it is important to follow the prescribed policies set forth in the Faculty Staff Handbook (Chapter 5, 5100, H.) to prevent overspending.

4.    Ensures that all personnel associated with the sponsored project certify their effort via the University's Personnel Activity Reporting System.  

5.    Certifies all cost-sharing required for the project.

6.    Initiates requests for cost-transfers and re-budgeting of funding.   Routes such requests through appropriate channels.

7.    Review and understand their obligations in relation to sponsored program awards, prepare sub-award initiation forms and approve sub-award payments.

8.    Notifies OSP of any program income (such as revenue from sales and services of goods developed in conjunction with a sponsored project).

9.    Assumes fiscal responsibility for overdrafts, deficits, un-collectibles, and/or disallowances that occur under a Sponsored Project account.