If a principal investigator is away from the campus for an extended period of time, such as during a sabbatical or a formal leave of absence, then he/she will be required, either to pause human subjects studies, or to name as co-principal investigator another qualified MIT faculty or staff member having principal investigator status and current human subjects training to assume responsibility for direct supervision of the protocol. All such designations as co-principal investigator must be approved by COUHES.
Notwithstanding the above, if a principal investigator believes he/she is able to maintain direct supervision of a protocol while on sabbatical or formal leave, then they may present a protocol management plan outlining how they will continue to fulfill their responsibilities. This requires review and approval by COUHES and by the investigator's Department Head.
Updated February 26, 2025