Consultant Costs
Consultants bring a particular expertise to a project that is otherwise not available within the institution. Some federal agencies have specific limits and guidelines regarding the use of consultants and the reimbursement rates for consultants. Appropriate costs for consultants include travel and housing costs as well as professional fees.
Generally, OSU faculty and staff cannot be paid as consultants on sponsored projects; they should typically be listed as project personnel for an appropriate percentage of time. If the project activity falls outside their normal university responsibilities, OSU personnel can be paid supplemental compensation. Supplemental compensation must be approved by the department and college; Research Foundation staff determine if additional approval is needed from the sponsor.