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Changes to Sponsored Research Review of Progress / Final Reports and Other Support Documents

January 20, 2026

Please be aware of changes to Sponsored Research (SR) processes related to the review and submission of progress reports, following the recent SR reorganization. 

Review and Submission of Progress Reports 

  • Effective February 1, 2026, all progress or final reports requiring SR involvement (e.g., RPPRs submitted through Commons or reports requiring an institutional signature) will be managed by the Award Management team. This shift aligns report review with other post-award activities, particularly when reports indicate potential project changes that may require an Award Modification Request (AMR) or other action. 
  • The Pre-Award team will continue reviewing and submitting progress reports through February 1 as internal training and handoffs are completed. 
  • Continuation records will be reassigned to the Award Management team after February 1. 
    Note: CERES records are not required for interim or final reports. Please contact the Award Management team member listed on your CERES AWD when reports are ready for submission. 
  • The University’s 5-day proposal deadline policy applies to all RPPR submissions, regardless of which team reviews them. RPPRs must be submitted in final form in CERES at least 5 days before the sponsor deadline to ensure timely submission. 

Other Support Review 

Federal requirements for Other Support rely on faculty to provide complete and transparent disclosure of all external resources—not only funding but also in-kind support and collaborations. Northwestern’s internal systems capture only research-related financial support and do not reflect these additional resources. 

Beginning February 2026, SR’s review of Other Support documents will be limited to confirming that: 

  • The PI has certified the document, and 
  • The correct format has been used. 

RPPR and Other Support Resources 

Research administrators are strongly encouraged to review available resources to ensure RPPRs are prepared in accordance with NIH guidelines and to avoid delays during SR review. 

SR, in partnership with NU’s Conflict of Interest (NUCOI) and Export Controls and International Compliance (ECIC) offices, has expanded resources to support faculty and staff in understanding their disclosure responsibilities. PIs should contact NUCOI or ECIC with specific questions, especially regarding resources provided by foreign collaborators. 

 

Resources currently available: 

 

 Forthcoming resources (anticipated February 2026): 

  • Northwestern Other Support Training for Research Administrators (web based) 
  • SR RPPR job aid 

** Important Reminder **

  • NIH Other Support documents must be prepared using SciENcv for all submissions on or after January 25, 2026. 

 Additional Reminders 

  • Technical reports not requiring SR signature or involvement may be submitted directly by the PI. 
  • ASRSP manages post-award financial and property reports.