All investigators who submit proposals for extramural funding for research, training or public service projects and all extramural awards that the University receives for such projects must name an eligible employee of the University to serve as Principal Investigator (PI) on the research project.
Role of Principal Investigator
The P.I. named on the proposed project or award takes responsibility for the design and conduct of scientific, technical and administrative activities as well as all reporting required for a funded research, training or public service project.
The University only recognizes one individual as the P.I. and s/he must personally participate in the project to a significant degree.
Eligibility Criteria
At the University of California, Merced only voting members of the Academic Senate may serve as a P.I.
Exceptions to Principal Investigator Status
Anyone who wishes to serve as a P.I. but does not meet the eligibility criteria must submit a request for Exception to Principal Investigator Status. Use this form to present a detailed justification for the exception. Both the Dean and the Vice Chancellor of Research must review and approve the request.
Send your completed, signed Exception Form to the Sponsored Projects Office (SPO) in advance of the submission deadline for your proposal to allow sufficient time to obtain approval.
