ROLE OF THE PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
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Grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements are awarded to the Regents of the University of New Mexico by funding sources/agencies. The University is responsible for the administration of the projects. The principal investigator is responsible for adhering to the University of New Mexico policies and procedures for completing the technical requirements and handling the day-to-day administration of the project as proposed to the funding agency. The PI's responsibilities include:
1. Reviewing the award document thoroughly for agency requirements that must be fulfilled by the PI or project director.
2. Preparing and submitting internal forms and applications for Pre-Award review and approval, following the specifications of the sponsor and UNM policies and procedures. This includes additional information requested by the sponsor at the “Just in Time” stage.
3. Managing the project in accordance with the approved statement of work (SOW). Changes to the SOW generally need prior written approval of the funding agency. Request for changes in the SOW must be routed through the Pre-Award office.
4. Expending and managing funds in conformity with the approved budget from the Post-Award office. Over-expenditures are the responsibility of the PI’s department/unit.
5. Following the Conflicts of Interest in Research policy by submitting disclosures for all investigators on the project, at the time of initial proposal submission and when any changes occur.
6. Initiating, monitoring, and approving expenditures for any subawardees according to UNM policies (see the University Business Policies and Procedures Manual–Policy 2470) and procedures.
7. Reviewing and validating reports of expenditures generated by the University Financial Accounting System and reviewing financial reports prepared by the Post-Award office.
8. Submitting salary redistributions and non-salary cost transfers on a timely basis.
9. Completing effort certifications and timesheets as required for the project and verifying commitments as proposed. (Labor redistributions may not be done after the time period has been certified).
10. Contacting Pre-Award office regarding intellectual property issues.
11. Ensuring that any humans and/or animals involved in the project are treated in accordance with all applicable policies (i.e., University, federal, government, and sponsor).
12. Providing care and maintenance of property in accordance with the sponsor's and the University's equipment and maintenance requirements.
13. Notifying the department/unit administrator (or designated person) and Property Accounting of receipt or return of loaned equipment or property.
14. Submitting and retaining technical reports and other deliverables as required by the award.
15. Ensuring that cost sharing requirements are properly documented and met.
16. Ensuring completion of award requirements stipulated by the agency. This includes peparation of all technical reports.
17. Contacting the Industrial Security Office regarding all security and export control issues.