MichaelVernick

Michael J. Vernick is a leading authority on legal frameworks governing federal research funding, False Claims Act (FCA) enforcement and a dedicated advisor to universities, research institutions, and academic medical centers. His practice centers on compliance risk management, white-collar investigations, and enforcement matters for institutions receiving federal grants and contracts, as well as entities in the defense and life science sectors.

Mike guides clients through the increasingly demanding legal framework for scientific research funding and compliance, foreign-ties investigations, compliance with civil rights law and regulation, and disclosure enforcement. He is widely recognized for his accomplishments defending clients against FCA allegations and resolving issues related to grants and cooperative agreements. Mike has successfully handled many of the most significant FCA and qui tam matters involving federal research, research security, and Uniform Guidance compliance, including resolving the first reported FCA case focused on undisclosed researcher ties to a foreign government.

An influential voice on federal grant regulations, Mike regularly works with institutions on issues related to conflicts of interest, export controls, and cybersecurity requirements applicable to federal contractors and funding recipients. His experience responding to government investigations and audits includes those of the Department of Health and Human Services, the National Science Foundation, and the Department of Defense.

Mike’s ability to defend institutions while advancing best-in-class capacity building and training initiatives makes him an invaluable resource for universities and colleges confronted by heightened regulatory scrutiny. His comprehensive understanding of government contracts coupled with his experience in research security and international collaboration compliance seamlessly positions him as an indispensable advisor to institutions and companies in numerous sectors doing business with the government. Mike’s practice encompasses contracting and research funding compliance, including cost allowability, Federal Acquisition Regulation and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement compliance, cybersecurity, and research security matters. He also handles suspension and debarment proceedings, contract claims and disputes, and Cost Accounting Standards audits and claims.

Mike’s involvement with academic medical centers, research institutes, and clinical trials operations provides a significant strategic bridge to the life science sector.