| Effective Date: 1/1/92 (revised 2/26/01) |
| Office of Origin: Office of Research Administration |
This policy defines responsibilities for the review, acceptance, and execution of contracts and grants.
Contract: an exchange of promises that gives rise to legally enforceable rights and duties. A contract is usually a binding agreement under which the sponsor provides funding for a proposed program in return for a product (e.g., services, scientific report). Contracts are specific in the nature of the work to be done, the manner in which it is carried out, and the conditions of termination. Under a fixed-price contract, the sponsor and the University agree in advance on the price of the work to be done. A cost-reimbursement contract reimburses the University for actual costs of conducting the project.
The terms and conditions of contracts and grants must comply with the policies and regulations set forth by The Regents, and only designated officials of the University are authorized to accept grants or execute contracts.
A. Policy on the Review of Contracts and Grants
1. Contracts and Grants Officer
The Contracts and Grants Officer will verify that commitments outlined in contract or grant proposals are reasonable, and are consistent with University policy. In addition, the Contracts and Grants Officer will determine whether prior approval by the UC General Counsel to The Regents is necessary before execution. Verification will be made that the principal investigator or project director understands the commitments to be undertaken.
2. Principal investigator/project director
In the capacity of principal investigator or project director, the recipient of an award represents The Regents, and is obligated to carry out the responsibilities assumed on behalf of the University.
B. Policy on Acceptance or Execution of Contracts and Grants
1. Acceptance of contract or grant proposals approved for solicitation by The Regents
Authority to accept grants or execute contracts awarded to proposals that have been approved for solicitation by The Regents as outlined in Administrative Policy 400-12, Authority to Solicit Contracts and Grants, is conferred upon the University of California President.
2. Acceptance of contracts and grants approved by the Contracts and Grants Officer
On the basis of authority redelegated by the Chancellor, the Contracts and Grants Officer will accept grants and execute contracts in a manner consistent with the requirements of the University and the sponsor.