Department approval memos [formerly known as Letter 10(s)] are used at award stage by the Federal Contract Services Team for the following types of transactions where the prime source of funding is a Federal Contract: incoming subrecipient awards, contracts, master agreements, individual funded task/work orders under master agreements, and associated amendments to all of these types of transactions.
This memo acknowledges that the PI, Chair, and Dean have reviewed and approved the agreement; confirms that all exhibits are acceptable from their perspective, and provides permission for the Office of Sponsored Programs to obtain the authorized signature or if necessary start the negotiation process.
Although the entire agreement should be read, some key areas that the department and PI should pay close attention to are the period of performance dates, reporting requirements, invoicing, key contacts for programmatic, administrative, and invoicing questions, and termination clause. The department and PI may also wish to pay close attention to confidentiality, publication/intellectual property rights, and material transfer language, if applicable. It is best if any changes needed are requested before full execution of the agreement.