Faculty Startup Funds

General Guidelines - CNS Spending Policy

  • Startup funding is provided to launch a faculty member’s research efforts while they are establishing a stable foundation of external funding.
  • These funds are primarily intended to purchase equipment but additional expenses related to research are allowed.
  • The list of allowable expenses below is to be used as a guide.


Allowed Expenses

Unallowed Expenses

EquipmentEntertainment
Research suppliesAdministrative staff
Graduate student supportNon-research related supplies
Research personnel (including postdocs)Renovations of labs or office space
Travel for researchFurniture and furnishings
Faculty summer salary as outlined in offer letterWorks of art

Gifts

Startup Account End Date Extension Request

Startup funding is usually available during a faculty member's first five year. 

To request an extension of the end date:

  • Send an email request to the Department Chair that includes
    • justification for the extension
    • current balance
    • proposed new end date
    • plans for the expenditure of remaining funds

If the Department Chairs approves the request, it will be forwarded to the CNS Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs for final approval.

Notes

While some other expenses may be related peripherally to research activities, uses of startup funds for these expenses is prohibited.

  • If there is an expense that is not on this list, please ask financials@cns.utexas.edu for clarification or approval for use of the funds.

If funds are needed for unallowed expenses they should be requested from the Department Chair.

All renovations or furnishings requests should be coordinated with Research and Facilities in the Dean’s Office.

Additional Info