Live research administration trainings are open to all in the MIT research administration community and those exploring a career in research administration. MIT authentication is required to register for and join online trainings.
MIT Atlas Learning Center closes registration two days before the course is scheduled to be held. Atlas email course reminders will include Zoom links for virtual sessions. Register early, and contact training@mit.edu if a course you are interested in is closed or if you have any registration difficulties.
Drop-In Sessions
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RA Support team members will highlight recent changes with FY2025 and FY2026 F&A rates and other topics drawn from current trends in questions received through ra-help@mit.edu. We invite you to bring questions and/or current proposals that you are working on. Join on Zoom (no registration required)
June 2026
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When a Principal Investigator moves to a new institution, transferring their sponsored awards can be a complex and time-sensitive process. Without careful coordination, these transitions risk delays, compliance issues, and disruptions to research progress. This session will guide research administrators through the key steps, challenges, and best practices for managing award transfers efficiently and effectively. We'll explore both the sending and receiving institution perspectives, including sponsor requirements, internal approvals, subawards, equipment transfers, and communication strategies. You'll leave equipped with tools and checklists to keep the process moving forward, ensuring research continues without missing a beat.
Registration is not required. Please join us June 4, 2026, via Zoom
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Create a Detailed Budget for a Non-Profit sponsor with a difference between MIT’s federally negotiated rate and the F&A rate allowed by the sponsor resulting in Underrecovery.
This hands-on class will build upon knowledge and skills practiced in the pre-requisite web courses.
Please complete pre-requisite courses in this order prior to registration:
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Award closeout is the process by which the sponsoring agency determines that all applicable administrative actions and required work associated with an award have been completed by the recipient. While closeout is often viewed as the final step in the award lifecycle, successful closeout actually begins much earlier—when the proposal is first developed and throughout the life of the project. In this interactive session, we will explore how thoughtful planning, strong collaboration between pre- and post-award teams, and consistent monitoring throughout the award period can help prevent common closeout challenges. Join us to discuss best practices, share experiences, and identify practical strategies to ensure a smooth and compliant closeout process.
Learning Objectives
- By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify key administrative and financial requirements involved in the award closeout process
- Recognize how early planning and effective award management throughout the project lifecycle can prevent common closeout issues.
- Discuss strategies and best practices for coordinating across research administration functions to support timely and compliant closeout.
Registration is not required. Please join us June 16, 2026, via Zoom
July
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A strong internal control environment is essential to ensuring the integrity, reliability, and compliance of research operations. This session will explore the definition, purpose, and various types of internal controls, with a focus on their application within higher education research settings. Participants will gain clarity on the roles and responsibilities that support a sound control framework and examine real-world examples that illustrate effective control practices. The session will also address the consequences of internal control failures, highlighting lessons learned and strategies for mitigation. Whether you're new to internal controls or looking to strengthen your current practices, this session offers valuable insights to enhance your organization's research compliance and assurance efforts.
Learning Objectives
- By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Discuss the definition, purpose, and types of internal controls
- Recall the roles and responsibilities associated with a sound internal control environment
- Provide examples of internal controls in research administration
- Discuss the impact of internal control failures
Registration is not required. Please join us July 16, 2026, via Zoom
Share your topic suggestions at ra-help@mit.edu.