We have had a couple of these Ph.D. "research associates."  Since they are
the PIs on the grants it does not make sense to have a competition.  We
remind people that these are not permanent positions and go away when the
grants do and that this is similar to the sole source provisions for
procurement.  There has been absolutely no issue here and at my previous
institution with hiring in this manner.

Barbara H. Gray                            Telephone:   803-953-5673
Director of Sponsored Programs      Fax:            803-953-6577
College of Charleston                     e-mail:         xxxxxx@cofc.edu
Charleston, SC  29424