The document summarizes a presentation from the June 2013 COGR (Council on Governmental Relations) meeting, led by David Kennedy and featuring representatives from Stanford University, University of Iowa, and University of Maryland at Baltimore. The focus of the session was the administration of service centers within research institutions, particularly in the context of evolving federal guidance, such as OMB circulars and NIH policies. Key issues addressed included the applicability of federal policies to institutional service and recharge centers, challenges related to working capital reserves and equipment replacement funds (especially when equipment is federally funded), and the principle of non-discriminatory rate setting for services used in federally funded research.
The session was motivated by recent federal developments, such as NIH FAQs on core facilities and the proposed changes to OMB guidance, prompting concerns and discussions among research administrators. Attendees explored case studies and shared best practices to clarify compliance ambiguities, with emphasis on identifying institutional pain points, fostering good financial stewardship, and ensuring effective advocacy with federal agencies. The session also highlighted the broader context of interagency efforts, such as the OSTP Research Business Models group, aimed at adapting to the changing landscape of federally sponsored research and its business models.
