Missouri State > Sponsored Research and Programs > Competitive Budget > Responsibility of the PI
Office of Sponsored Research and Programs
Responsibility of the PI
Responsibility of the Prinicipal Investigators (PI)
What are PI's authorized to do?The PI is responsible for all the tasks in the scope of work. The PI is not authorized to obligate the University contractually and should not sign any contracts or agreements. Prior to and during subcontract initiation, the PI may incur personal liability if he or she authorizes a subcontractor to begin work and guarantees payment in the absence of an executed subcontract and purchase order.
Additionally, the subcontractor is not authorized to perform any work prior to the issuance of a valid purchase order. Contracts and award documents are in the name of the University and must be signed by an authorized Missouri State University signatory.