Question: If a PI receives an award letter or agreement directly from a sponsor, should he or she sign and return it to the sponsor before sending OSP a copy?
Answer: No, VUMC’s Institutional Official (OSP) must sign or countersign a grant award or agreement between VUMC and a sponsor.
If an award requires both PI and institutional signatures, the PI must sign before OSP countersigns the award. The department administrator should email a copy of the award, including all terms referenced within, to OSP as soon as it is received. Often, terms related to intellectual property, licensing, etc. must be negotiated with the prospective sponsor. Sending OSP the award as soon as it is received (and including the sponsor’s official due date) ensures that award review and negotiation begins immediately and does not adversely affect the award’s projected start date.
For questions or concerns please contact your OSP specialist.
VUMC - Office of Sponsored Programs 