Grant Manual

Grant Manual

About This Manual

This manual has been prepared as a resource for faculty and staff who are seeking, or have received, funding from external sources (e.g., federal agencies and private foundations) in support of their research, equipment acquisition, or other projects. Its goal is to provide information covering the submission of a proposal, the administration of a grant and the closeout of an award and to answer the most commonly asked questions relating to grants. This manual also describes particular Bowdoin policies affecting grant projects, some of which apply to all research being conducted at Bowdoin, whether externally funded or not.

A Principal Investigator (PI) is the individual designated by the grantee, in this case Bowdoin College, and approved by the funder, who will be responsible for the scientific or technical direction of the project. If more than one investigator is involved in a project, the first investigator listed will have principal responsibility for the project and the submission of reports. All others listed are considered co-PIs and share in the responsibility of the scientific or technical direction of the project. The term "Principal Investigator" generally is used in research projects, while the term "Project Director" generally is used in science and engineering education and other projects.

All Bowdoin Principal Investigators must adhere to the guidelines outlined in this manual and are responsible for submitting their proposals, implementing their projects, complying with funders’ reporting requirements. The final accountability for projects, however, ultimately rests with the College, the official recipient of the award, which necessitates appropriate internal reviews and controls.

At Bowdoin, multiple offices work collaboratively to support faculty and staff in their grant seeking and grant administration efforts. The Office of Corporate and Foundation Relations (CFR) helps faculty and staff identify grant opportunities, comply with guidelines and submit proposals. The Dean for Academic Affairs authorizes all proposed budgets and activities and the submission of academic proposals; the Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration and Treasurer authorizes the same for all non-academic proposals. Once an award is made, the Grants Administrator in the Controller’s Office works with the Principal Investigator to ensure accurate financial administration of the grant and compliance with federal regulations.