The Principal Investigator (PI) is primarily responsible for the technical conduct and management of the project to assure that contractual and regulatory conditions are met, and to make certain that the program stays within its budget. Costs associated with a project are expected to be charged directly to the project. The PI, department chair, and college dean are all expected to exercise responsible judgment in the administration of the project, particularly with regard to the terms of the agreement and university policies and procedures. Financial liabilities which result from failure to comply with the grant or contract become the responsibility of the PI, department and college.

• is responsible for project implementation, assembling the necessary staff, properly expending the funds, and conducting the project as described in the proposal and agreed to by means of the award notification.
• must direct the work so that it will be completed within the performance period and with the funds authorized; otherwise, a request for supplemental funds or a no-cost time extension must be initiated. Researchers are expected to familiarize themselves thoroughly with the regulations applicable to their specific project/agency.
• may authorize changes when they are in compliance with the agency's cost principles, as well as the State of Florida's fiscal regulations, and if the goods or services are directly related to the sponsored project. Salaries and wages may be authorized by the investigator only if they are in accordance with OMB Circular A-21.
• has first line responsibility for managing expenditures within the fiscal regulations and amounts specified by the sponsor. The PI must carefully analyze the Grant Inception-To-Date w/ FUND (RSP000008) report to see that all items presented are correct and that appropriate funds (cash and budget authority) are available. The PI also has the responsibility of initiating or coordinating appropriate adjustments as each situation dictates. It is suggested that this analysis take place no less than monthly in order to provide for timely action if needed.
• is responsible for any exempt purchases (see Expenditure Restrictions & Guidelines) purchased in conjunction with a grant and must provide written documentation stating the purpose, list of attendees, and authorized approval.
• is responsible for ensuring that the cost sharing commitment is met on a grant or contract and to provide RSP the documentation necessary to track cost sharing commitments.
• must approve all expenditures such as, but not limited to, personnel actions, purchases, travel, transfers or recharges of expenditures, CAERS, and distribution of funds to other university accounts.