Research and Sponsored Programs Office

The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (RSP) partners with Western Washington University faculty, staff, and research teams through every stage of the sponsored project lifecycle. From discovering funding opportunities and developing competitive proposals to submitting applications, managing awards, maintaining compliance, and closing out projects, RSP provides the expertise, institutional oversight, and support needed to advance research, scholarship, and creative activity at Western.

As the university's Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR) for engaging with sponsored projects, RSP coordinates institutional review and approval processes, submits proposals on behalf of the university, negotiates sponsored agreements, interprets sponsor and regulatory requirements, and supports responsible stewardship of external funding. Through partnership, guidance, and shared accountability, RSP helps researchers focus on discovery, innovation, student engagement, and community impact.