Pod Model FAQs

As part of GW’s overall assessments to evaluate efficiency within all functions, a new “pod” model is in place for sponsored research administration. This represents efforts that began years ago to decentralize research support and is the next evolution of the decentralization principle to accelerate progress toward our goal of achieving preeminence as a comprehensive global research university.

We hope the following will provide answers to some of your questions, and we invite you to email [email protected] with additional questions.

How are the pods organized?

Each pod supports two or more schools and their affiliated research centers and institutes. The pods are organized around similar disciplines and account for the relative volume of proposals, awards and transactions that are handled by each.

The model consists of three pods managed directly by the schools and colleges:

  • Pod 1: Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Elliott School of International Affairs, the School of Business, and the Graduate School of Education and Human Development, the College of Professional Studies, and Libraries and Academic Innovation
  • Pod 2: Milken Institute School of Public Health, the Biostatistics Center, and GW Law
  • Pod 3: School of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Engineering and Applied Science, and School of Nursing
Who are the points of contact for each pod?

The Office of Sponsored Projects website has more detailed information about pod leadership, managers and how to contact the pods.

Our unit does not report to a school. How does the pod model support our research?

As the model evolves, other research units will be assigned to pods. In the meantime, any unit needing assistance may contact [email protected].

Who staffs the pods? What functions do they encompass?

The pods are school-led and include both school and central research administrators. Each pod has pre-award, post-award and contracting functions. By focusing on school-specific portfolios, research administrators continue to develop expertise in the requirements of common sponsors and funding mechanisms.

What functions remain central within the Office of Sponsored Projects?

All Office of Sponsored Projects staff continue to report to the central office, including the pre-award, post-award and contracting officers that are embedded within the pods. Award set-up, subawards, document and data management, training and education as well as some supervisory and administrative responsibilities remain within the central office. While the pods have more autonomy and flexibility, the authority to commit the university remains within central administrative offices.

Who is my sponsored projects point of contact?

Contacts for Office of Sponsored Projects staff are available on the OSP staff webpage, and here for pod staff. If you need assistance or have questions at any time, please contact [email protected].