News
SR News & Updates: April 8, 2026
Item summaries are included below. Read SR News & Updates (April 8, 2026) for the full details.
NIH: Updated Grants Policy Statement and Other Changes
NIH has released an updated Grants Policy Statement along with new notices impacting late submissions, and prior approval requirements. Key changes include all prior approval requests to be submitted through the eRA Prior Approval Module. Additionally, effective June 1, 2026, NIH will require prior approval before adding any domestic subaward that was not included in the original peer reviewed application. All such requests must be submitted through the eRA Commons Prior Approval Module, using the “Other Request” category.
Department of Defense: New Research Security Rules & Risk Matrix
The Department of Defense (DoD) has issued new research security requirements effective March 9, 2026, that may affect a PI’s eligibility for funding or require mitigation including collaborations, use of foreign research equipment and participation in or funding from countries of concern.
Research Security Training Refresher Now Available
Faculty and research personnel are beginning to receive reminders for the annual Research Security Training requirement which is required for all Federal proposals and awards and must be completed every 12 months. A "refresher" version is now available, allowing users to renew training by completing the quiz without retaking the full course.
Zero-Dollar ($0) Proposals and Awards
Northwestern University reviews and documents all research proposals and agreements involving Northwestern personnel and resources, even when no funding is provided or the sponsor doesn’t require institutional endorsement. Just as with any funded proposal, zero-dollar proposals must be submitted to Sponsored Research via CERES prior to submission, in accordance with the Sponsored Research deadline policy. Following review, Sponsored Research will provide documentation of institutional endorsement via a Letter or Statement of Intent, or sign other forms as required. A $0 award is received following receipt of a complete and compliant proposal record.
SR Reminders & Upcoming Events
Updates include expanded Help page guidance, launch of virtual Coffee Hour Connect, and a reminder regarding timely completion of reporting deliverables.