Sponsored Programs Administration & Research Compliance

The Office of Sponsored Programs Administration & Research Compliance (SPARC) provides Drake University's faculty, staff and students with comprehensive guidance and support in their pursuit and conduct of research and scholarly activities.

SPARC works collaboratively with the research community to assist them in advancing Drake's mission of teaching, research and scholarship and provides them with the highest quality customer service and technical expertise.
Please note: All grant related final documents need to be submitted to the SPARC office five work days prior to the submission deadline.

SPARC provides assistance in five primary areas: Pre-Award, Post-Award, Research Compliance, Technology Transfer, and Training.

• Developing a Grant
• When You Receive An Award
• Research Compliance
• Technology Transfer
• Education, Training, and Outreach
• Policies and Forms

News & Updates

Date: 1/08/2026

SPARC Newsletter

SPARC is happy to introduce our new departmental newsletter, created to keep our community informed, connected, and engaged. Each issue will highlight timely updates, opportunities, resources, and important information pertaining to the world of sponsored programs. We hope this newsletter becomes useful and an enjoyable way to stay connected to what’s happening in SPARC.

Please click here to access our newsletter: 2026 Q1 Newsletter

Date: 9/30/2025

NIH Policy Update: Other Support Training Required
NIH has issued NOT-OD-25-133, requiring training for faculty and Senior/Key Personnel on Other Support disclosures, effective October 1, 2025. This training is designed to help ensure compliance in reporting all active and pending research activities and affiliations.

Please use the following training PowerPoint to understand NIH's Other Support disclosure: NIH Other Support Disclosure Training

If you have any questions, please reach out to: preston.miller@drake.edu