As a reminder, the National Science Foundation’s updated Research Security Training requirement goes into effect on December 2, 2025. Beginning on this date, all Key Personnel listed at the proposal stage must have completed the NSF Research Security Training. This training must be renewed annually. What You Need to DoKey Personnel should verify completion of the required […]
Announcements
MicroLearning Monday – Understanding USC’s Clinical Trials Office: Support for Research Success
Welcome back to MicroLearning Mondays, our biweekly series of bite-sized research administration trainings brought to you by the Department of Contracts and Grants. This week’s topic: Understanding USC’s Clinical Trials Office: Support for Research Success Why It Matters: Industry-sponsored clinical trials involve complex requirements—from budget negotiations and Medicare Coverage Analyses to contract terms, patient care costs, and OnCore […]
NIH Announces Unified Funding Strategy for Clearer and More Consistent Award Decisions
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has released a new framework that will change how Institutes, Centers, and Offices (ICOs) determine funding outcomes. This approach will take effect beginning with the January 2026 Council round and is intended to increase transparency, equity, and alignment with NIH’s mission across all ICOs. Under the new strategy, all ICO funding policies […]
Updated NIH Terms & Conditions of Award – Termination & Court Order Compliance
Effective October 1, 2025, The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has updated the Terms and Conditions of Award for all new, renewal, supplement, and continuation Notices of Award. The revised language reinforces federal requirements for award termination and clarifies how NIH will apply terms that become subject to court orders. All new Notices of Award will now […]
Interim NIH Reopening of Extramural Activities
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has released interim guidance regarding the reopening of extramural activities now that the federal government shutdown has concluded. While many of your teams may have already seen this notice, we want to ensure everyone in the research community is aware of the key updates and upcoming adjustments to NIH […]
Thanksgiving & Winter Break (2025)
The Department of Contracts and Grants extends warm wishes to you and your families for a joyful and restful holiday season. As we approach Thanksgiving and the University’s Winter Recess, please review the important dates and reminders below regarding upcoming office closures. Office Closures In observance of the holidays, DCG will be closed on the following dates: Thanksgiving: Thursday, […]