Old Dominion University Research Foundation’s (the Foundation) policies and procedures require that any financial transaction initiated be done so with appropriate levels of authorization. Signature authority is the responsibility of designated Primary Investigator on individual project accounts, cost centers, overhead accounts and discretionary accounts. Co-Principal Investigators have automatic signature authority for projects on which they are so designated. Signature authorization may be delegated to staff or research assistants only upon expressed written approval of the Principal or Co-Investigator.

The Old Dominion University Research Foundation Signature Authorization / Delegation Form is the mechanism that is used to authenticate or delegate signature authorization. Part A – SIGNATURE AUTHORIZATION is completed for any investigator with an account established at the Foundation. Part A is to be completed only once and becomes a permanent record for signature verification purposes. Part B – SIGNATURE DELEGATION is initiated by the Principal Investigator or Co-Investigator to identify the specific projects or accounts and individuals for which authority is delegated. Limited signature authorization is allowed up to certain dollar limitations designated by the Investigator. Signature authorization may be delegated for the following functions:

Access to submitting online purchase requisitions is granted based upon the submission of a properly completed ODU Research Foundation Signature Authorization/Delegation Form.

The signature authorization form is located on the Foundation’s web page. This form is to be printed in paper copy with original signatures of designated personnel obtained. The form is to be returned to the Research Foundation, Attention: Office Services.

Signature authorization remains in effect indefinitely. On an annual basis, at the beginning of each academic year, the Foundation will request that all signature delegations be updated. This request will be sent to all faculty via the Foundation’s list serve.

Home | Accounting/Procurement