Therefore, principal investigators are expected to provide a minimum amount of effort in order to manage the project throughout the year and the budget period. Such effort, if not paid by the sponsor, must be cost shared . These letters must be approved by SPA before they are sent to the sponsor. A change in effort is an indicator that the project's scope might have altered. Sponsors must approve changes in the scope of the project.
Sponsors define 'substantially' differently.
Consult the sponsor's policy and the SPA grant administrator for details. The PI can take a leave of absence up to three months without needing a replacement. To avoid confusion and to ensure smooth management, the sponsor should still be informed. The PI's letter to the sponsor must include a justification and description of the substitute's qualifications. The PI must also provide written notification to any compliance committees.