From: Carol Parker, Provost & Sr. VP Academic Affairs
RE: Principal Investigator Guidelines on Sexual Harassment Reporting from the National Science Foundation and National Institute of Health
Date: February 12, 2020
The purpose of this memo is to discuss the new rule from the NSF that went into effect on October 21, 2018. On February 28, 2019, NIH issued similar guidelines. NMSU, NSF, and NIH expect all research organizations to ensure harassment-free environments. Both NSF and NIH have taken a firm stand against sexual harassment occurring on funded research projects. NMSU ARP 3.25 mandates reporting of discriminatory conduct, including sexual harassment and sexual misconduct, by responsible employees. NSF and NIH require that awardee organizations report directly to them, under certain circumstances, when sexual harassment has been reported.
New Notification Requirements from NSF:
- NSF must be notified of any findings/determinations of sexual harassment, other forms of harassment, or sexual assault regarding an NSF funded PI or Co-PI.
- NSF must be notified if an NSF funded PI or Co-PI is placed on administrative leave or receives any administrative action related to a finding/determination of an investigation related to any sexual harassment or sexual misconduct.
- Notifications must be submitted by an "authorized organizational representative" within 10 days of the date of the finding/determination or 10 days from the time a PI or Co-PI was placed on admin leave, whichever is sooner.¹
¹Asst. VP, Research Administration, Alisha Giron, is designated as the authorized organizational representative who will report to NSF. She will also report to NIH.
