How much does it cost to conduct a research project at Stanford University?
Of course, the answer to that question will depend on the nature of the project. But in all cases, the answer will include both DIRECT and INDIRECT (Facilities & Administrative – F&A) costs. Direct Cost Example Consider the costs of conducting a laboratory project to study the genetic composition of certain human chromosomes. In this hypothetical example, a Stanford faculty member will conduct a series of experiments over one year, working with a postdoctoral scholar. They will learn more about the structure, organization and function of human DNA, leading eventually to improvements in human health. It is relatively easy to identify several DIRECT costs of conducting this project. They include: • A percentage of the faculty member’s annual salary (plus benefits) • A percentage of the postdoc’s salary (plus benefits) • The cost of the material and supplies necessary to perform the work In our example, these direct project costs total $100,000 per year. Indirect (F&A) Cost Example The pr
