Sponsored Research

Purpose

The Sponsored Research Office at USCA is dedicated to supporting and advancing research activities through securing external funding and managing awarded grants. Our mission is to facilitate the growth of scholarly research by providing essential resources, guidance, and administrative support. We aim to streamline the process of obtaining research funding, ensuring compliance with regulations, and promoting the ethical conduct of research involving human subjects. By fostering an environment of collaboration and excellence, the Sponsored Research Office empowers researchers to achieve their scholarly goals and contribute meaningfully to their fields of study.

USCeRA

All proposals must be submitted through USCERA for approval and submission. This platform ensures proper account setup to manage awarded funds.

Proposals must include:

• Budget
• Budget Justification
• Scope of Work

The Director of Sponsored Research can review draft documents before submission. For a complete review by the USC Sponsored Research staff, submit through USCERA at least three working days before the proposal deadline.

Access USCeRA

USC Sponsored Awards Management

The USC Sponsored Awards Management website provides resources for preparing proposals, including guidance on budgets, templates, and essential reference materials.

Visit USC Sponsored Awards Management

Key Resources:

• External Proposal Budget Preparation: Learn More
• Budget Templates: Download Templates
• Essential Reference Information:
  o Fringe Benefits: Currently 32.97% for faculty
  o Facilities & Administration Costs: Currently 38% for research

For assistance, contact Ellen Foy, the USCA Coordinator at USC Sponsored Awards Management

Institutional Review Board (IRB)

Projects involving human subjects typically require review and approval by the IRB. This process can take several months, so it’s crucial to begin early.

For more details, visit the USC IRB site:

USC IRB

Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)

Research involving animals must be reviewed by the IACUC. Currently, you can access information about the USCA IACUC here:

USCA IACUC

Note: The university will transition to the USC IACUC in late 2025. Stay updated here:

USC IACUC Transition

Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC)

If your experiments involve recombinant DNA or other infectious materials, IBC approval is required. For further information, visit the USC IBC:

USC IBC