We are in the process of firming up/updating our proposal submission guidelines.

Heretofore (great word) our policy has been geared towards the capacity of each individual, i.e. those faculty who can show up at the last minute but need no help and have fully developed proposals were allowed to proceed. As you might expect, many have less capacity and/or need greater assistance.

Recently we experienced two proposals that were not yet ready for prime time. In one case, the dean indicated that she wanted it to go. I told her that we should reach consensus on this but, if she really wanted it to go, I would ensure such. I have no expectation that it will be funded. In the other case, I withdrew the (NSF) proposal the day following submission. I had informed the PI of my desire to stop the submission. He indicated that he could fix it and I deferred, however the proposal did not have a thorough final review. Upon review the day following submission, I found the fatal flaws and withdrew the proposal.

So***..several questions:

1. Who holds final go/no-go decision making authority at your institution?
2. What deadlines do you have to ensure that a full and proper review is done by your sponsored programs office?
3. What approvals/authorization do you require from the dean/department to submit?
4. How do you handle proposals that should not be submitted?

Cheers.

Larry

Larry Waxler, Director
Office of Sponsored Programs
University of Southern Maine
P.O. Box 9300
Portland, ME 04104-9300
Telephone: 207-780-4413
Telefax: 207-780-4927

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