The Sponsored Projects Office (SPO) assists staff members in the identification of funding sources, preparation of proposals, negotiation of agreements, and offers administrative support during the progress and close-out of sponsored project activities.
Specifically SPO performs the following activities:

1. Supports the scientific staff on a continuing basis to be responsive to their needs.
2. Reviews all proposals for compliance with AURA Policies and sponsoring agency requirements
3. Determines the accuracy of proposal budgets, including calculation of fringe benefits and indirect costs.
4. Maintains administrative liaison with sponsoring agencies and knowledge of agency guidelines and administrative requirements.
5. Serves as the central administrative office responsible for negotiating contracts, grants, and other complex agreements.
6. Reviews all award documents for acceptance and compliance with terms and conditions and initiates required internal accounting procedure.
7. Monitors on-going activities with emphasis on fiscal control and accountability.
8. Monitors the sponsoring agency requirements for submission of technical reports.
9. Reviews and approves all SPO invoices for payment.
10. Issues Request For Bid/Proposals (RFB/P) for outside services and/or major complex agreements.
11. Interacts with other agencies in the development of Memorandums of Agreement and Understanding.

The Sponsored Projects Office (SPO) mission is to provide assistance in obtaining and managing sub-awards and grants that support activities in advancing all aspects of AURA's mission while assuring proper stewardship of those funds