The presentation by Jim Luther at the October 2013 COGR Meeting addresses the anticipated implementation of OMB Uniform Guidance A-81 and its impact on research administration at Duke University. Duke’s research support is characterized by a decentralized structure, with principal investigators, grant managers, and business managers assuming significant responsibility at the unit level. The institution faces challenges related to training, communication, business process transformation, and compliance monitoring, all amidst competing priorities such as ongoing operations, electronic research administration initiatives, regulatory changes, and HR process overhauls.
Key changes introduced by A-81 include new rules for direct charging of computers and administrative personnel, updates to travel and compensation policies, and increased subrecipient monitoring thresholds. However, uncertainties remain regarding federal guidance, agency-specific interpretations, compliance expectations, and alignment among stakeholders. In response, Duke’s leadership, through the RACI committee, is developing an action plan focusing on leadership engagement, business process assessment, IT solution evaluation, reprioritization of initiatives, and enhanced training and monitoring mechanisms to ensure successful adaptation to the new federal requirements.
