Orientation and Management of the Program Advisory Committee (PAC)

The SNRP Director provides orientation and supervision of the PAC regarding their oversight and independent assessment of the scientific and administrative performance of the entire SNRP Program. It is envisioned that the PAC would be comprised of leading academic research administrators and neuroscientists with specific expertise in the management and development of institutional research programs. To be effective in discharging its oversight responsibilities, the PAC should receive continuous updates (i.e. monthly minutes) and input from the SNRP Director on key developments in the program. In addition, senior institutional officials should be present at the PAC meeting to ensure that (1) they present their strategic plan as it relates to the SNRP, (2) they are aware of the vision for the program and (3) they will commit to providing all necessary assistance for achieving that vision.

With respect to the PAC meeting itself, the PAC chairman is responsible for presiding over the meeting and ensuring that all relevant issues, particularly those outlined in the 'terms and conditions' of award, are raised and discussed. Finally, the PAC chairman is responsible for providing recommendations for addressing these issues to the SNRP Director, in response to which the SNRP Director provides an implementation plan, counter signed by an institutional official, to the NINDS within 60 days.