News
SR News & Updates: May 13, 2026
Item summaries are included below. Read SR News & Updates (May 13, 2026) for the full details.
NIH Common Forms Requirement
As of May 8, Common Forms for NIH applications and RPPRs are required. The leniency period has ended, and system warnings will now be errors that stop any submission not using compliant Common Forms. SciENcv also added the Research Security Training Certification language back to the NIH Common Forms on April 22 for applications due on or after May 25, 2026; senior/key personnel will need to regenerate biosketches with the required certification.
NIH Collaborative International Research Project (PF5)
The new PF5 mechanism supports international research collaborations by requiring a U.S. prime award linked to independent foreign awards, replacing traditional foreign subawards. PF5 is now required for any NIH proposal involving funded foreign components. Guidance is available on the NIH website and in the SR Proposal Updates Teams Channel.
Budget Justification Language Update
There are no current active efforts to limit indirect cost recovery on Federally funded research. Budget justification language regarding F&A litigation is no longer needed.
Genesis Collaboration
The DOE’s Genesis Mission issued a $293 million RFA requiring collaborations with national laboratories and industry. Northwestern University successfully submitted 87 proposals. Sponsored Research extends a special thank you to research administrators and colleagues in Export Control, Conflict of Interest, and others for their patience and flexibility during this challenging competition.
SR Staffing Announcement
SR announces Stephanie Logaras as the new Assistant Director, Pre-Award. She will be the primary contact for pre-award matters including proposal review and submission.
SR Resource Reminders
The SR Updates Teams Channel shares timely information related to proposals and sponsored research issues. CERES Contact and Access Management explains how to request or update security access and manage administrative contacts across proposals, awards, and agreements.