PI, Co-PI Eligibility, Roles and Responsibilities

Purpose

This policy defines the eligibility requirements for serving as a Principal or Co-Principal Investigator on a NIU sponsored project.

Reason for Policy

Sponsored projects are contractual agreements between the university and the sponsor. Because of this, it is important that individuals serving as Principal Investigators and Co-Principal Investigators possess the necessary academic and professional credentials, qualifications, and access to resources to carry out and manage the sponsored award. Serving as an Investigator is a privilege and requires an Investigator to have the requisite experience to oversee the scientific, programmatic and compliance aspects of a sponsored project.

Intended Audience

• Senior Administration, Vice Presidents, Deans, Associate Deans
• Directors, Department Chairs, Division Heads
• Supportive and Professional Staff
• Faculty
• Departmental/Divisional Administrators
• Sponsored Programs Administration Personnel
• Graduate and Undergraduate Students

Policy

All NIU Academic Tenured and Tenure-Track Faculty, Research Faculty, Librarians and Permanent Employees are eligible to serve as Principal Investigator (PI) or Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) on a sponsored project.

Other employee appointments can qualify for PI or Co-PI status with additional approval.

The Vice President for Research and Innovation Partnerships reserves the right to adjust PI and Co-PI privileges as needed to ensure the highest standards of research excellence and integrity.

Associated Guidance

Principal Investigator Eligibility (DOCX)

Effective Date: 8/1/2025
Approval: Assistant Vice President for Research and Sponsored Programs