Welcome to the Sponsored Programs Administration web site!

As a unit within Research and Public Service, the JMU Sponsored Programs Administration (SPA) office provides support for research opportunities and sponsored research-related information to JMU faculty, staff and students. Our purpose is to guide our faculty through the grant-seeking process by helping in identifying funding sources and assisting in the planning and preparation of proposals for submission to external sponsors.

The benefits of scholarship and research at an undergraduate institution such as James Madison University fall into three broad areas. First is the creation of new knowledge, which, through its application, can enrich the quality of life. Second, the students who participate in the endeavor receive a type of education which, is unique. Many students who have this opportunity go on to become primary contributors themselves. Finally, the faculty member is challenged by the activity to both stretch his/her imagination and continue to learn. This progression ultimately translates into a more vibrant and interesting teacher.

Mission Statement: Sponsored Programs Administration's mission is to enchance and facilitate the ability of faculty, staff, and students to develop and achieve their goals in research, educational programming, and service delivery through successful competition for external funding. This mission will be accomplished while maintaining responsible stewardship of extramural sponsored projects as directed by the values of our office and the applicable federal, state, and agency regulations and policies.

SPA is a unit within Research and Public Service under the leadership of John Noftsinger, Vice Provost. We are dedicated to providing progressive services that give the faculty and staff of JMU a competititve edge in obtaining external funding. SPA coordinates externally funded research and regulatory training, and is the authorized institutional representative for grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements.

SPA provides comprehensive information on government agencies, foundations, and corporations that support research and scholarship. SPA provides assistance in identifying potential funding sources; developing proposal narratives, and budgets; completing electronic applications; assuring regulatory compliance with all applicable federal, state, and agency regulations; negotiating contracts and other transaction agreements; and administering post-award non-fiscal issues.