When projects terminate prior to the original expiration date, the DLCI, PI, and RAS must work together to determine a response. Award agreements typically include a clause for how an early termination situation will be handled.
Early Termination Notices
If a sponsor sends an early termination notice:
- Notice sent to PI: PI should send a copy of the notice to RAS immediately.
- Notice sent to RAS: RAS will contact the DLCI and the PI immediately.
RAS will work with the DLCI to evaluate the notice and plan a formal response to the sponsor.
Reasons for Early Termination
Early termination may be due to:
- Accelerated rate of spending exhausts sponsored funds
- PI leaves the institution and the project will not be transferred or assigned a new PI
- Sponsor’s level of funding is reduced
- Sponsor requests termination
Reporting
In the event of early termination, all required reports, such as financial, technical, and patents, must still be provided to the sponsor (unless the sponsor waives the requirement). For detailed information, see the Vice President for Finance (VPF) closeout procedures.
Updated December 15, 2025