The Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) meeting report from October 23-24, 2014, provides an extensive overview of ongoing developments in federal research policy, compliance, costing, contracts, intellectual property, and related administration at academic research institutions. Noteworthy is COGR’s active role in preparing its membership for the implementation of the OMB Uniform Guidance (UG), effective December 26, 2014, by developing comprehensive resources like the Institutional Readiness Guide and advocating for technical corrections and policy clarifications. The report addresses significant transitions, such as delays in NIH subaccounting and momentum toward a 120-day grant closeout model, while also detailing developments in federal audit priorities and university financial management amidst continued budgetary uncertainty.
In the area of contracts and intellectual property, COGR highlights efforts to streamline export controls through the ITAR to EAR migration, responds to changes in DOD contractor auditing requirements, and engages with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on policy changes affecting patent eligibility for natural products. The organization also reiterates compliance obligations under the Bayh-Dole Act, especially regarding invention reporting, and collaborates with agencies like NIST and NIH to enhance technology transfer effectiveness. Research compliance initiatives discussed include ongoing challenges and improvements in public access mandates, evolving policies related to dual use research of concern and chemical facility regulations, and updated NIH definitions of clinical trials. The report reflects COGR's commitment to advocacy, policy clarification, and support for research institutions navigating a complex regulatory landscape, while fostering dialogue among federal agencies, universities, and other stakeholders to strengthen the research enterprise.
