Guide to Research Administration:
Individuals/Offices Involved in Research Administration

The Researcher
The most important person in the research function is the Researcher. Primary responsibility for the project rests with the researcher. The Researcher applies for the grant/contract, performs the research, manages the staff and finances and reports on the findings. It is possible for the researcher to delegate tasks for the project, however s/he can not delegate the responsibility.

It is important that the researcher be aware of all facets of research administration. A network of people, in various offices, exist to assist the Researcher through the complicated web of legal, ethical and financial requirements and policies.

The Department
The Department to which the grant/contract has been awarded is another important player in research. The Department may assist the researcher in issues such as personnel, space requirements, purchases, etc. The extent of the involvement of the Department varies by department. The office of the Chair must be aware of who is conducting research, where it is being done and the financial status of the project.

Health Research Services (HRS)
CSD oversees matters relating to research administration in the Faculty of Health Sciences. These include the entire pre-award process, as well as post-award functions such as ethics, research space, the Central Animal Facility, and other central facilities.

Office of Research Services (ORS)
The Office of Research Services is responsible for all non-financial matters relating to research administration of all non-Health Sciences awards.

McMaster Industry Liaison Office (MILO)
The Office of Research Contracts and Intellectual Property provides support for all contract research at McMaster University. Functions include the development of the contract, the terms, and follow-up where necessary with the Researcher and the agency. All contract research must be approved in advance by this office.

Research Finance
There are two Research Finance offices at McMaster, one for the Faculty of Health Sciences, and the other for the remainder of the University. Each office is responsible for the day to day financial matters relating to research account administration.

Research Administration Contact List

Overview

Health Research Services (HRS)

Office of Research Services (ORS)

Office of Research Contracts and Intellectual Property (ORCIP)

Research Finance, Health Sciences