Can an emeritus or retired faculty member serve as a principal investigator?

Answer

Yes, as long as the faculty member has a significant physical presence at the university If not, then the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research (OVCRI), will need to approve the project role in addition to the applicable academic dean, institute director, or campus administrative officer.

Note: The Unit Executive Officer or institute director determines whether sufficient departmental or unit resources are available to support acceptance of any sponsored research award involving emeritus or retired faculty members as PIs. If someone will serve as PI, then an applicable appointment should be established; the rate of pay that the university may charge a sponsor for a retired faculty member is limited and may be subject to conditions imposed by the retiree’s retirement plan.