The Designated Supervisor

The Designated Supervisor is the adult who directly supervises a student’s experiment. If a Qualified Scientist is directly supervising the experiment then there is no need for an additional Designated Supervisor. In this case the Qualified Scientist signs the forms, such as Form 3 or Form 5A, in place of a Designated Supervisor.

A Designated Supervisor is always required when there are hazardous substances or devices being used in an experiment or if the experiment involves hazardous activities. Many experiments require either a Qualified Scientist or a Designated Supervisor to supervise the project. These project include most vertebrate animal studies, experiments involving Biosafety Level 1 biological agents, and some experiements involving controlled substances. The Designated Supervisor is also responsible for the care of any vertebrate animals used in an experiment. He/she must be experienced, or get training, in the care and handling of the animal(s) involved.

In addition, the sponsoring teacher or the SRC may require the presence of a Designated Supervisor if either feels that special supervision is necessary. Any time a Designated Supervisor is used, that person must approve the project and sign the appropriate forms BEFORE the experiment may begin.

To qualify as a Designated Supervisor the person does not need to have an advanced degree, but should be thoroughly familiar with the student’s project, and must be trained in the student’s area of research. The Adult Sponsor or a parent may act as the Designated Supervisor if he/she has been properly trained.

For more information as to which projects require a Designated Supervisor please see the rules and regulations for Restricted Projects.