Term	Acronym	Definition
A
A-110		Uniform administrative requirements for grants agreements, a circular published by the federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB), that sets forth standards for obtaining consistency and uniformity among federal agencies in the administration of grants to and agreements with institutions of higher education, hospitals and other non-profit organizations. Replaced by the Uniform Guidance on December 26, 2014.
A-133		Audits, a circular published by the federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB) that sets forth standards for obtaining consistency and uniformity among federal agencies for the audit of States,local governments,and non-profit organizations expending federal awards. Replaced by the Uniform Guidance on December 26,2014.
A-21		Cost Principles for Educational Institutions,a circular published by the federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB, ) that establishes the principles for determining the costs applicable to grants,contracts and other government agreements with educational institutions (also known as sponsored projects). Replaced by the Uniform Guidance on December 26,2014.
Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy	ARPA-E	The Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) advances high-potential, high-impact energy technologies that are too early for private-sector investment. ARPA-E awardees are unique because they are developing entirely new ways to generate, store, and use energy.
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality	AHRQ	The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s (AHRQ) mission is to improve the quality, safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of health care for all Americans. As 1 of 12 agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services, AHRQ supports research that helps people make more informed decisions and improves the quality of health care services.
Agency for International Development	AID/USAID	The Agency for International Development promotes broadly shared economic prosperity; strengthens democracy and good governance; protects human rights; improves global health; advances food security and agriculture; improves environmental sustainability; furthers education; helps societies prevent and recover from conflicts; and provides humanitarian assistance in the wake of natural and man-made disasters.
Air Force Office of Scientific Research (DoD)	AFOSR	AFOSR’s mission is to support Air Force goals of control and maximum utilization of air,space,and cyberspace. AFOSR accomplishes its mission by investing in basic research efforts for the Air Force in relevant scientific areas.
Air Force Research Laboratory (DoD)	AFRL	AFRL is the Air Force’s only organization wholly dedicated to leading the discovery, development, and integration of warfighting technologies for U.S. air, space and cyberspace forces.
Allocable Costs		Allowable costs that actually benefit the grant or contract to which they are charged.
Allowable Costs		Categories of costs that are allowable as a charge on a grant or contract as determined by the terms and conditions of the award and/or appropriate cost principles. Certain types of costs, such as the cost of alcoholic beverages are not allowed and may not be charged to a contract or grant.
American Cancer Society	ACS	The American Cancer Society is a nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem.
American Heart Association	AHA	The mission of the AHA is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
American Medical Association	AMA	The mission of the AMA is to ensure that enhancements to health care in the United States are physician-led, advance the physician-patient relationship, and ensure that health care costs can be prudently managed.
American Veterinary Medical Association	AVMA	The mission of the Association is to improve animal and human health and advance the veterinary medical profession.
Animal Care and Assurance Number		UTD’s Animal Care and Assurance Number is D16-00212 or A3329-01 (expires 4/30/23).
Animal Welfare Act	AWA	Federal law regulating the use, sale and handling of animals. The Animal Welfare Act was signed into law in 1966. While its original intent was to regulate the care and use of animals in the laboratory, it has become the only federal law in the U.S. that regulates the treatment of animals in research, exhibition, and transport by dealers. Other laws, policies and guidelines may include additional species coverage or specifications for animal care and use, but all refer to the Animal Welfare Act as the minimum acceptable standard. The Act was amended seven times (1970, 1976, 1985, 1990, 2002, 2007 and 2008) and can be found in the United States Code, Title 7, Sections 2131-2156.
Animal Welfare Regulations	AWR	USDA regulations that implement the Animal Welfare Act.
Application Submission System Interface for Submission Tracking (ASSIST) (NIH)	ASSIST	ASSIST is NIH’s online system for the preparation, submission and tracking of grant applications through Grants.gov to NIH.
Applied Research		Research that attempts to exploit scientific discoveries or improvements in technology, materials, processes, devices, or techniques.
Army Research Laboratory (DoD)	ARL	The Army Research Laboratory (ARL) is the U.S. Army’s corporate research laboratory.
Army Research Office (DoD)	ARO	The U.S. Army Research Laboratory’s Army Research Office (ARO) mission is to serve as the Army’s premier extramural basic research agency in the engineering, physical, information and life sciences; developing and exploiting innovative advances to insure the Nation’s technological superiority.
Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication (UTD)	ATEC	Located in the School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology, the Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication program focuses on the foundations of computer animation, game studies, UX/UI design, motion graphics, digital fabrication, and media histories.
Assistance Listing		The federal government provides assistance in the form of projects, services, and activities. It supports a broad range of programs through grants, loans, scholarships, insurance, and other types of financial assistance. Each assistance listing is associated with a unique five-digit CFDA number.
Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care Intl.	AAALAC	A private nonprofit organization that promotes the humane treatment of animals in science through a voluntary accreditation program.
Association of University Technology Managers	AUTM	AUTM is a nonprofit association with membership of more than 3200 technology managers and business executives who manage intellectual property.
Assurance		A formal written, binding commitment that is submitted to a federal agency in which an institution promises to comply with applicable regulations governing research with human subjects and use of animals and stipulates the procedures through which compliance will be achieved.
Attending Veterinarian	AV	Individual with the authority to implement the veterinary care program and to oversee the adequacy of all other aspects of animal care and use, e.g., animal husbandry, nutrition, sanitation practices, zoonosis control, and hazard containment.
Audit		A formal examination of an organization’s or individual’s accounts or financial situation. An audit may also include examination of compliance with applicable award terms, laws, regulations, and policies.
Authorized Organizational Representative	AOR	Term used by National Science Foundation. The administrative official who, on behalf of the proposing organization, is empowered to make certifications and assurances and can commit the organization to the conduct of a project that NSF is being asked to support and adhere to various NSF policies and grant requirements.
Award		The provision of funds by a sponsor, based on an approved application and budget, to an organizational entity or an individual to carry out an activity or project.
B
Basic Research		Research directed toward more complete knowledge of a particular subject without regard to application.
Bayh-Dole Act		The Bayh-Dole Act was enacted in 1980 and stands as the watershed for today’s technology transfer in American colleges and universities. The act was amended and amplified by various executive and Congressional actions, and it now collectively describes federal law governing rights to inventions conceived or first reduced to practice during research under a federally funded grant, contract, or cooperative agreement at colleges/universities and small businesses. The Department of Commerce is designated as the federal agency to promote commercialization and has responsibility for implementing the regulations issued under the act. The purpose of Bayh-Dole is to: promote collaboration between commercial concerns and nonprofit organizations including universities; promote use of inventions arising from federally sponsored research or development; and ensure that inventions are used to promote free competition and enterprise.
Belmont Report		A statement of basic ethical principles governing research involving human subjects issued by the National Commission for the Protection of Human Subjects in 1978.
Biosafety, Biosecurity, and Emerging Biotechnology Policy Division (NIH)		The NIH Office of Science Biosafety, Biosecurity, and Emerging Biotechnology Policy Division focuses on the development and implementation of policies that promote the responsible conduct and oversight of life sciences research.
Biosafety Level	BSL	A description of the degree of physical containment being employed to confine organisms containing recombinant DNA molecules and to reduce the potential for exposure of laboratory workers, persons outside of the laboratory and the environment. NIH Guidelines grades from BSL-1 (least stringent) to BSL-4 (most stringent).
BioSafety Officer	BSO	An individual appointed by an institution to oversee management of biosafety risks. The NIH guidelines require that a BSO be appointed when the institution is engaged in large-scale research or production activities, or in research requiring containment at BL-3 or BL-4. The duties of the BSO are described in 4.1.23 of the NIH Guidelines.
Brain Performance Institute (UTD)	BPI	The Brain Performance Institute at UTD delivers programs and resources developed and tested at the Center for BrainHealth.
Bridge Funding		The purpose of bridge funding is to sustain active research programs between budget periods.
Broad Agency Announcement	BAA	An announcement of a federal agency’s general research interests that invite proposals and specify the general terms and conditions under which an award may be made.
Budget		A list of anticipated project costs that represent the Principal Investigator’s best estimate of the funds needed to support the work described in a grant or contract proposal.
Budget Adjustment		The act of amending the budget by moving funds from one category or line item to another. (See also: Rebudget)
Budget Justification (or Description or Narrative)		A written description of the cost estimation methods used in preparing a budget that also explains or describes the types of individual costs that make up a larger budget category.
Budget Period		The interval of time—usually 12 months—into which the project period is divided for budgetary and funding purposes.
C
Cancer Prevention Research Institute of Texas	CPRIT	CPRIT’s goal is to expedite innovation and commercialization in the area of cancer research and to enhance access to evidence-based prevention programs and services throughout the state.
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance	CFDA	Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) provides a full listing of all federal programs available to State and local governments (including the District of Columbia); federally-recognized Indian tribal governments; Territories (and possessions) of the United States; domestic public, quasi- public, and private profit and nonprofit organizations and institutions; specialized groups; and individuals.
Cayuse		Cloud platform and comprehensive set of connected apps covering the entire research lifecycle. UTD utilizes the human subject module.
Center for Brain Health (UTD)	CBH	The Center for BrainHealth was created in 1999 and has a mission to understand, protect and heal the brain.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention	CDC	An agency within PHS, the CDC is recognized as the lead federal agency for protecting the health and safety of people – at home and abroad, providing credible information to enhance health decisions, and promoting health through strong partnerships.
Center for Information Technology (NIH)	CIT	A NIH Center whose mission is to provide, coordinate, and manage information technology and to advance computational science.
Center for Scientific Review (NIH)	CSR	CSR is the focal point at NIH for the conduct of initial peer review, the foundation of the NIH grant award process. The Center carries out peer review of the majority of research and research training applications submitted to NIH. Formerly known as the Division of Research Grants (DRG).
Center for Values in Medicine, Science and Technology (UTD)	CVMST	The Center for Values in Medicine, Science and Technology promotes public understanding of the complex, crucial role that technological innovations and scientific discoveries play in shaping the values of contemporary culture. The Center can assist faculty with the Broader Impacts of their proposal submissions.
Center for Vital Longevity (UTD)	CVL	The Center for Vital Longevity brings together an extraordinary group of research scientists who are using advanced brain-imaging technologies and research techniques in cognitive neuroscience to understand, maintain, and improve the vitality of the aging mind.
Challenge Grant		A grant that provides monies in response to monies from other sources, usually according to a formula. A challenge grant may, for example, offer two dollars for every one that is obtained from a fund drive. The grant usually has a fixed upper limit, and may have a challenge minimum below which no grant will made. This form of grant is fairly common in the arts, humanities, and some other fields, but is less common in the sciences. A challenge grant differs from a matching grant in at least one important respect: The amount of money that the recipient organization realizes from a challenge grant may vary widely, depending upon how successful that organization is in meeting the challenge. Matching grants usually award a clearly defined amount and require that a specified sum be obtained before any award is made. (See also Matching Grant.)
Change Order		A written order signed by the contracting officer, outlining specific changes to a contract. The change order directs the contractor to make changes as ordered. The changes clause of the contract authorizes the contracting officer to issue change orders without the consent of the contractor.
Claim		In the context of intellectual property, a claim or claims must be included in a formal patent application such as an international application for patent (PCT) or non-provisional US application for patent. The claim must clearly and distinctly describe the invention and define the scope of the protection of the patent.
Clinical Center (NIH)		The mission of the Clinical Center is to provide a versatile clinical research environment enabling the NIH mission to improve human health by investigating the pathogenesis of disease; conducting first-in-human clinical trials with an emphasis on rare diseases and diseases of high public health impact; developing state-of-the-art diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic interventions; training the current and next generations of clinical researchers; and, ensuring that clinical research is ethical, efficient, and of high scientific quality.
Clinical Trial		A controlled study involving human subjects, designed to evaluate prospectively the safety and effectiveness of new drugs or devices or of behavioral interventions.
Close Out		The act of completing all internal procedures and sponsor requirements to terminate or complete a research project.
Code of Federal Regulations	CFR	The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) is a codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the Executive departments and agencies of the federal government.
Cognizant Federal Agency		The federal agency which, on behalf of all federal agencies, is responsible for: reviewing, negotiating, and approving cost allocation plans, indirect cost rate and similar rates; monitoring non-federal audit reports; conducting federal audits as necessary; and resolving cross-cutting audit findings. The cognizant agency under the applicable cost principles and under OMB Uniform Guidance may be different for a given recipient. In UTD’s case this is the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
Collaborative Research Agreement	CRA	A Collaborative Research Agreement (CRA) is an agreement in which two institutions are working together to conduct a research project.
Commercial and Government Entity Number	CAGE	The Commercial And Government Entity (CAGE) Code is a five-character ID number used extensively within the federal government,is used to support a variety of mechanized systems throughout the government and provides a standardized method of identifying a given facility at a specific location. UTD’s CAGE code is 0W921.
Common Rule		The Common Rule is a federal policy regarding Human Subjects Protection that applies to 17 Federal agencies and offices. It does not apply to federal agencies that have not signed the agreement (e.g., Department of Labor, etc.) The main elements of the Common Rule include: Requirements for assuring compliance by research institutions; requirements for researchers’ obtaining and documenting informed consent;requirements for IRB membership, function, operations, review of research and record keeping. The Common Rule includes additional protections for certain vulnerable research subjects. (Also  known as the “Federal Policy”.)
(eRA) Commons		Used by NIH,AHRQ,CDC,FDA,SAMHSA and the VA,the eRA Commons system supports the full grants life cycle from receipt to award to closeout.
Competing Proposals		Proposals that are submitted for the first time or unfunded proposals that are resubmitted; both must compete for research funds. Ongoing projects must compete again if the term of the original award has expired.
Confidentiality		Pertains to the treatment of information that an individual has disclosed in a relationship of trust and with the expectation that it will not be divulged to others without permission in ways that are inconsistent with the understanding of the original disclosure.
Conflict of Commitment		An outside activity, whether professional or non-professional, compensated or uncompensated, that interferes with successful performance of the faculty member’s or other employee’s duties. This is often related to the time and effort of the individual.
Conflict of Interest	COI	A conflict of interest is a situation in which an employee has the opportunity to influence a University decision that could lead to financial or other personal advantage, or that involves other conflicting official obligations. A conflict of interest can also occur when the conduct of research or other sponsored activities is or has the potential to be influenced by the outside financial interests of an investigator.
Consortium Agreement		Group of collaborative investigators/institutions; arrangement can be formalized with specified terms and conditions.
Consultant		Individuals hired to give professional advice or services for a fee but not as an employee of the University. Consultants do not perform a portion of the programmatic work. University personnel may not serve as paid consultants on grants or contracts awarded to UTD.
Continuation-In-Part	CIP	When improvements are made to an invention, an applicant can file a new patent application citing the improvement to the original patent application,and that patent application is called a Continuation-In-Part.
Continuation Project (Non-Competing)		Applicable to grants and cooperative agreements only. A project approved for multiple-year funding, although funds are typically committed only one year at time. At the end of the initial budget period,progress on the project is assessed. If satisfactory, an award is made for the next budget period, subject to the availability of funds. Continuation projects do not compete with new project proposals and are not subjected to peer review beyond the initial project approval.
Contract		A mechanism for procurement of a product or service with specific obligations for both sponsor and recipient. Typically, a research topic and the methods for conducting the research are specified in detail by the sponsor, although some sponsors award contracts in response to unsolicited proposals. An agreement; as used here, an agreement that a specific research activity will be performed at the request, and under the direction,of the agency providing the funds. Research performed under contract is more closely controlled by the agency than research performed under a grant. (Compare: Grant)
Contract Line Item Number	CLIN	A Contract Line Item Number (CLIN) is a process of assigning unique numbers to contracts. This is to ensure that all lines are identified. Each CLIN must be defined and described in detail. This prevents confusion when ordering or tracking of parts or items of a contract. The CLIN identifies each supply or service recorded in the database. The number will appear once for each separate item, even if multiple schedules apply.
Contracting Officer		A sponsor’s designated individual who is officially responsible for the business management aspects of a particular contract.
Controlled Unclassified Information	CUI	Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is information that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls pursuant to and consistent with applicable law, regulations, and government-wide policies but is not classified under Executive Order 13526 or the Atomic Energy Act, as amended.
Cooperative Agreement		An award similar to a grant, but in which the sponsor’s staff may be actively involved in proposal preparation, and anticipates having substantial involvement in research activities once the award has been made.
Cooperative Research and Development Agreement	CRADA or CRDA	A written agreement between a private company and a government agency to work together on a project. Federal government and non-federal partners can optimize their resources and cost-effectively perform research by sharing the costs of this research. The collaborating partner agrees to provide funds,personnel, services, facilities, equipment or other resources needed to conduct a specific research or development effort while the federal government agrees to provide similar resources but not funds directly to the partner.
Copyright	©	A copyright is a set of exclusive legal rights authors have for “original works of authorship” including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, architectural and certain other intellectual works, both published and unpublished. Under the federal copyright act, copyright protection is secured from the time the work is created in fixed form. Copyright ensures that the owner has the exclusive right to reproduce the work, to prepare derivative works, to distribute by sale or otherwise copies of the work,to perform publicly, and to display. Registration is not a requirement for copyright protection. Copyright does not protect ideas, only the tangible work itself.
Cost Accounting Standards	CAS	CAS outlines government requirements for education institutions to use consistent cost accounting practices for classifying, estimating, accumulating and reporting costs for sponsored agreements.
Cost-Reimbursement Type Contract/Grant		A contract/grant for which the sponsor pays for the full costs incurred in the conduct of the work up to an agreed-upon amount.
Cost-Sharing		A general term, used as a noun or adjective, that can describe virtually any type of arrangement in which more than one party supports research, equipment acquisition, demonstration projects, programs, institutions. Example: A university receives a grant for a project estimated to have a total cost of $100,000. The sponsor agrees to pay 75% ($75, 000) and the university agrees to pay 25% ($25, 000). The $25,000 is the cost-sharing component.
Council on Governmental Relations	COGR	An association of research universities whose primary function is to help develop policies and practices that fairly reflect the mutual interest and separate obligations of federal agencies and universities in federal research and training.
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification	CMMC	The CMMC will review and combine various cybersecurity standards and best practices and map these controls and processes across several maturity levels that range from basic cyber hygiene to advanced. For a given CMMC level, the associated controls and processes, when implemented, will reduce risk against a specific set of cyber threats.
D
Data Management Plan	DMP	A complete DMP outlines the process, strategies, and overall architecture of the security, processing, and publication of your research.
Data Universal Numbering System	DUNS	A unique nine digit identification number,for each physical location of your business. D-U-N-S Number assignment is free for all businesses required to register with the US Federal Government for contracts or grants. UTD’s DUNS number is 800188161.
Data Use Agreement	DUA	A Data Use Agreement (DUA) is a contractual document used for the transfer of data that has been developed by nonprofit, government or private industry, where the data is nonpublic or is otherwise subject to some restrictions on its use.
De-identified Health Information		De-identified health information neither identifies nor provides a reasonable basis to identify an individual. There are two ways to de-identify information; either: 1) a formal determination by a qualified statistician;or 2) the removal of specified identifiers of the individual and of the individual’s relatives, household members,and employers is required, and is adequate only if the covered entity has no actual knowledge that the remaining information could be used to identify the individual.
Declaration of Helsinki		A code of ethics for clinical research approved by the World Medical Association in 1964 and widely adopted by medical associations in various countries. It was revised in 1975 and 1989.
Defense Acquisition Regulations	DAR	The Defense Acquisition Regulations System (DARS) develops and maintains acquisition rules and guidance to facilitate the Acquisition workforce as they acquire the goods and services DoD requires to ensure America’s Warfighters continued worldwide success.
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DoD)	DARPA	DARPA’s mission is to maintain the technological superiority of the U.S. military and prevent technological surprise from harming our national security by sponsoring revolutionary, high-payoff research bridging the gap between fundamental discoveries and their military use.
Defense Contract Audit Agency	DCAA	The Defense Contract Audit Agency,under the authority,direction and control of the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller),is responsible for performing all contract audits for the Department of Defense,and providing accounting and financial advisory services regarding contracts and subcontracts to all DoD Components responsible for procurement and contract administration. These services are provided in connection with negotiation,administration and settlement of contracts and subcontracts. DCAA also provides contract audit services to some other Government Agencies.
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement	DFARS	Department of Defense supplement to the FAR. (See also: Federal Acquisition Regulation)
Defense Threat Reduction Agency	DTRA	DTRA is the U.S. Department of Defense’s official Combat Support Agency for countering weapons of mass destruction.
Deficit		The result of expenditures exceeding the project funds available.
Department of Agriculture	USDA	The mission of the USDA is to provide leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition, and related issues based on sound public policy, the best available science, and efficient management.
Department of Defense (Includes Air Force, Army, DARPA and Navy)	DoD	The mission of the Department of Defense is to provide the military forces needed to deter war and to protect the security of our country. The department’s headquarters are at the Pentagon.
Department of Education	DoEd	The mission of DoEd is to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access.
Department of Energy	DOE	The mission of the Energy Department is to ensure America’s security and prosperity by addressing its energy, environmental and nuclear challenges through transformative science and technology solutions.
Department of Health and Human Services	DHHS	The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the United States government’s principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services, especially for those who are least able to help themselves. AHRQ, CDC, FDA, HRSA, NIH and SAMHSA are all divisions of DHHS.
Department of Interior	DOI	The U.S. Department of the Interior protects America’s natural resources and heritage, honors our cultures and tribal communities, and supplies the energy to power our future.
Department of Transportation	DOT	The mission of DOT is to serve the United States by ensuring a fast, safe, efficient, accessible and convenient transportation system that meets our vital national interests and enhances the quality of life of the American people, today and into the future.
Developmental Research		Systematic use of the scientific and technical knowledge in the design, development, testing or evaluation of a potential new product or service.
Direct Costs	DC	Clearly identifiable costs related to a specific project. General categories of direct costs include but are not limited to salaries and wages, fringe benefits, supplies, contractual services, travel and communication, equipment and computer use.
Divisional Patent Application		If two or more independent and distinct inventions are claimed in one patent application, the USPTO Commissioner may request that the application be divided into two or more patent applications. If the inventor decides to maintain only one of the distinct inventions, the other invention will become abandoned.
Donation		Transfer of equipment, money, goods, services or property with or without specifications as to its use. Sometimes donation is used to designate contributions that are made with more specific intent than is usually the case with a gift, but the two terms are often used interchangeably. (Also see: Gift)
DUNS number		A DUNS number is a unique, non-indicative 9-digit identifier issued and maintained by B that verifies the existence of a business entity globally. A DUNS number is required in order to receive federal contracts or grants. UTD’s DUNS number is 800188161.
E
EAB (Formerly: Education Advisory Board)		EAB is a best practices firm that uses research, technology, and consulting to address challenges within the education industry.
Electronic Contract Processing System (NIH)	ECPS	The electronic Contract Proposal Submission (eCPS) is a component of NIH’s integrated, secure system for the electronic submission, capture, tracking and review of contract proposals.
Electronic Research Administration	ERA	Conducting research administration by utilizing electronic resources such as the internet, the world wide web, form templates, databases and other electronic tools.
Employer Identification Number	EIN	An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, and is used to identify a business entity. UTD’s EIN is 75-1305566.
Encumbrance		Funds that have been set aside or “claimed” for projected expenses pending actual expenditure of the funds.
Endowment		A fund usually in the form of an income-generating investment, established to provide long-term support for faculty/research positions (e.g., endowed chair)
Environmental Protection Agency	EPA	The mission of EPA is to protect human health and the environment.
Equipment		An article of nonexpendable, tangible personal property having a useful life of more than one year and an acquisition cost of $5,000 or more per unit.
Ethics Advisory Board		An interdisciplinary group that advises the Secretary of DHHS on general policy matters and on research proposals (or classes of proposals) that pose ethical problems.
Expedited Review		Review of proposed research by the IRB chair or a designated voting member or group of voting members rather than by the entire IRB. Federal rules permit expedited review for certain kinds of research involving no more than minimal risk and for minor changes in approved research.
Expiration Date		The date signifying the end of the performance period, as indicated on the Notice of Grant Award or award letter.
Export Administration Regulations	EAR	The EAR (Export Administration Regulations) are the rules by which the U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) regulates and controls exports of goods from the United States. All goods and services that are not covered under the State Department’s US Munitions (USML) list fall within the purview of the EAR.
Export Control		A cluster of laws and regulations that govern, for reasons of foreign policy and national security, when and how access can be granted to foreign nationals and foreign countries concerning strategically vital technology, services, and information, including research equipment and technology.
Extension		An additional period of time authorized by the sponsor (or awardee institution, as appropriate) to an organization for the completion of work on an approved grant or contract. An extension allows previously allocated funds to be spent after the original expiration date.
F
Facilities and Administrative Costs	F&A	Costs that are incurred for common or joint objectives and, therefore, cannot be identified readily and specifically with a particular sponsored project, an instructional activity,or any other institutional activity. FA costs are synonymous with Indirect Costs.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act	FERPA	The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.
FastLane (NSF)		FastLane is the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) online system that supports all functions of the proposal process: submission, review, award, and reporting.
Federal Acquisition Regulation	FAR	The FAR was established to codify uniform policies for acquisition of supplies and services by executive agencies.
Federal Aviation Administration	FAA	The mission of the FAA is to provide the safest, most efficient aerospace system in the world.
Federal Business Opportunities	FBO	A daily list of U.S. Government procurement invitations, contract awards,subcontracting leads, sales of surplus property and foreign business opportunities.
Federal Demonstration Partnership	FDP	The Federal Demonstration Partnership is a cooperative initiative among federal agencies and institutional recipients of federal funds. It was established to increase research productivity by streamlining the administrative process and minimizing the administrative burden on principal investigators while maintaining effective stewardship of federal funds.
Federal Policy (The)		The federal policy that provides regulations for the involvement of human subjects in research. The Policy applies to all research involving human subjects conducted, supported or otherwise subject to regulation by any federal department or agency that takes appropriate administrative action to make the Policy applicable to such research. (Also known as the “Common Rule”)
Federalwide Assurance	FWA	The agreement used by institutions receiving federal funds to assure compliance with research regulations. UTD’s FWA number is 00026324 (expires 10/19/2027).
Final Report		The final technical or financial report required by the sponsor to complete a research project.
Final Rule		The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and fifteen other Federal Departments and Agencies have issued final revisions to the Federal Policy for the Protection of Human Subjects (the Common Rule). It implements new steps to better protect human subjects involved in research, while facilitating valuable research and reducing burden, delay, and ambiguity for investigators.
Financial Disclosure		Written disclosure of non-UTD financial interests of an individual that are related or potentially related to research or other sponsored activities taking place within the university.
Fiscal Year	FY	Any twelve-month period for which annual accounts are kept. The UTD fiscal year runs September 1 – August 31. The government fiscal year runs October 1 – September 30.
Fixed-Price Contract/Grant	FP	A contract/grant for which one party pays the other party a predetermined price, regardless of actual costs, for services rendered or the delivery of a final product/report. Quite often this is a fee-for-service agreement.
Fogarty International Center (NIH)	FIC	The Fogarty International Center promotes and supports scientific research and training internationally to reduce disparities in global health.
Food and Drug Administration	FDA	An agency of the federal Department of Health and Human Services that protects the public health by assuring the safety, efficacy,and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical devices, our nation’s food supply,cosmetics and products that emit radiation.
For-Profit Organization		An organization, institution, corporation or other legal entity that is organized and/or operated for the profit or financial benefit of its shareholders or other owners. Such organizations are also referred to as “commercial organizations.”
Foreign component (NIH)		The performance of any significant scientific element or segment of a project outside of the United States, either by the recipient or by a researcher employed by a foreign organization, whether or not grant funds are expended. Activities that would meet this definition include, but are not limited to, (1) the involvement of human subjects or animals, (2) extensive foreign travel by recipient project staff for the purpose of data collection, surveying, sampling, and similar activities, or (3) any activity of the recipient that may have an impact on U.S. foreign policy through involvement in the affairs or environment of a foreign country.
Freedom of Information Act	FOIA	Enacted on July 4,1966, and taking effect one year later, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) provides that any person has a right, enforceable in court, to obtain access to federal agency records, except to the extent that such records (or portions of them) are protected from public disclosure by one of nine exemptions or by one of three special law enforcement record exclusions. A FOIA request can be made for any agency record.
Fringe Benefits		Employee benefits paid by the employer. (e.g.,FICA,Worker’s Compensation, Withholding Tax, Insurance, etc.) Must be included in request for funding for employees in proposal budgets. UTD does not have a negotiated fringe benefit rate.
Full Board/Committee Review		Review of proposed research at a convened meeting at which a majority of the membership of the IRB are present, including at least one member whose primary concerns are in nonscientific areas. For the research to be approved, it must receive the approval of a majority of those members present at the meeting.
Fundamental Research Exclusion	FRE	The Fundamental Research Exclusion provides that the information and software (except certain encryption source code) that result from fundamental research are outside the scope of EAR- or ITAR-controlled technical data,and may be disclosed to non-US persons without specific US Government authorization.
Funding Cycle		Range of time during which proposals are accepted, reviewed and funds are awarded. If a sponsor has standing proposal review committees (or boards) that meet specified times during the year, application deadlines are set to correspond with those meetings. For some sponsors, if proposals are received too late to be considered in the current funding cycle, they may be held over for the next review meeting (i.e.,National Science Foundation’s Target Dates).
G
General Data Protection Regulation	GDPR	The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) (EU) 2016/679 is a regulation in EU law on data protection and privacy for all individuals within the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA). It also addresses the export of personal data outside the EU and EEA areas.
General Services Administration	GSA	The GSA helps federal agencies better serve the public by offering,at best value, superior workplaces, expert solutions, acquisitions services and management policies.
Gift		Gifts and bequests are awards given with few or no conditions specified. Gifts may be provided to establish an endowment or to provide direct support for existing programs. Frequently,gifts are used to support developing programs for which other funding is not available. (Also see: Donation)
Grant		A type of financial assistance awarded to an organization for the conduct of research or other program as specified in an approved proposal. A grant,as opposed to a cooperative agreement, is used whenever the awarding office anticipates no substantial programmatic involvement with the recipient during the performance of the activities. Financial support provided for research study designed and proposed by the principal investigator(s). The granting agency exercises no direct control over the conduct of approved research supported by a grant. (Compare: Contract)
Grant Management Specialist (or Officer)	GMS	A sponsor’s designated individual who is officially responsible for the business management aspects of a particular grant or cooperative agreement. Serving as the counterpart to UTD’s Grants Specialist,the Grant Management Specialist is responsible for all business management matters associated with the review,negotiation,award and administration of a grant or contract and interprets the associated administration policies,regulations and provisions.
Grants Specialist	Specialist	Serving as the counterpart to the sponsor’s grants management specialist,the Grants Specialist is responsible for all institutional administrative matters associated with the review and approval of grant and cooperative agreement proposals, negotiation, acceptance and execution of these awards, administration of institutional oversight and compliance with award terms and conditions, and interpretation of associated institutional and sponsor policies, regulations and provisions.
Governor’s University Research Initiative	GURI	The Governor’s University Research Initiative grant program (GURI) was enacted in 2015 by the 84th Legislature with a goal to bring the best and brightest researchers in the world to Texas. This program is a matching grant program to assist eligible institutions of higher education in recruiting distinguished researchers. The GURI grant program is operated within the Office of the Governor (“OOG”) in the Economic Development and Tourism Division.
H
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996	HIPAA	HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) is United States legislation that provides data privacy and security provisions for safeguarding medical information.
Health Research Extension Act of 1985	HREA	The Health Research Extension Act of 1985 (Public Law 99-158) provides the legislative mandate for the Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Policy).
Health Resources and Services Administration	HRSA	The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is the primary federal agency for improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured, isolated or medically vulnerable.
Human Subjects		Under the federal regulations, human subjects are defined as: living individual(s) about whom an investigator conducting research obtains: (1) data through intervention or interaction with the individual; or (2) identifiable private information.
I
iEDISON- Extramural Invention Information Management System	iEDISON	iEdison (which stands for Interagency Edison) helps government grantees and contractors comply with a federal law, the Bayh-Dole Act. Bayh-Dole regulations require that government funded inventions be reported to the federal agency who made the award. iEdison is interagency because it provides a single interface for grantees and contractors to interact with any participating agency.
In-kind		Contributions or assistance in a form other than money. Equipment, materials or services of recognized value that are offered in lieu of cash.
Incremental Funding		A method of funding grants and contracts that provides specific spending limits below the total estimated costs. Each increment is, in essence, a funding action.
Indemnify		To protect against damage, loss or injury; to insure.
Indirect Costs	IDC	Costs related to expenses incurred in conducting or supporting research or other externally-funded activities but not directly attributable to a specific project. General categories of indirect costs include general administration (accounting, payroll, purchasing, etc.), sponsored project administration, plant operation and maintenance, library expenses, department administration expenses, depreciation or use allowance for buildings and equipment, and student administration and services. (See also: Facilities and Administration Costs)
Indirect Cost Rate		The rate, expressed as a percentage of a base amount (Modified Total Direct Costs), established by negotiation with the cognizant federal agency on the basis of the institution’s projected costs for the year and distributed as prescribed in OMB Uniform Guidance. The indirect cost rate is charged on a set of directs costs known as an indirect cost base. UTD’s rates are as follows: research = 56%;  instruction = 51.3%; Off-campus or other sponsored activities = 26%.
Informed Consent		A person’s voluntary agreement, based upon adequate knowledge and understanding of relevant information, to participate in research or to undergo a diagnostic, therapeutic or preventive procedure. In giving informed consent, subjects may not waive or appear to waive any of their legal rights, or release or appear to release the investigator, the sponsor and the institution or agents thereof from liability for negligence.
Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (UTD)	IIE	The Institute for Innovation Entrepreneurship at UTD was established in April 2006 as a collaborative initiative of the seven schools of the university. The Institute plays a major role in promoting cross-disciplinary academic and outreach programs across the university, including cross-listed courses, joint degree programs and broad-based community outreach initiatives.
Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee	IACUC	A faculty committee charged with reviewing and approving the use of animal subjects in research and teaching activities. The IACUC serves as an institutional compliance committee and is responsible for reviewing reported instances of regulatory noncompliance related to the use of animal subjects in research.
Institutional Biosafety and Chemical Safety Committee	IBCC	A standing committee appointed by the President and charged with reviewing and approving the use of recombinant DNA in all research projects and regulatory noncompliance.
Institutional Review Board	IRB	A university-wide standing committee whose members are appointed annually. The IRB has the authority to review, approve, disapprove, or require changes in all research or related activities involving human participants. The Office of Research Compliance works directly with investigators and their administrative staff to facilitate submission of the required IRB documentation.
Integrated Review Group	IRG	Term used by NIH in relation to peer review. A cluster of study sections responsible for the review of grant applications in scientifically related areas. These study sections share common intellectual and human resources.
Intellectual Property	IP	Any product of the human intellect that is unique, novel and unobvious and has some value in the marketplace. Some intellectual property is protectable by statute or legislation, such as patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, service marks and plant variety protection certificates. Protection of IP also occurs through agreements that control use of intellectual property.
Interagency Cooperation Contract	IAC/ICC	An Interagency Cooperation Contract (“IAC” or “ICC”) is a written agreement between agencies of the State of Texas under which goods or services are provided. Most IACs involving UTD are with another component institution of The University of Texas System, but they can also be issued directly by the State.
International Traffic in Arms Regulations	ITAR	International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) is a set of United States government regulations that control the export and import of defense-related articles and services on the United States Munitions List (USML).
Invention		A product of the human intellect that is new, useful and non-obvious process, machine or product.
Investigator-Initiated Proposal		A proposal submitted to a sponsor that is not in response to an RFP, RFA or a specific program announcement.
Invitation for Bid	IFB	A solicitation issued to prospective bidders. An IFB describes what is required and how the bidders will be evaluated. Award is based on the lowest bid. Negotiations are not conducted.
J
Just in Time (NIH)	JIT	The Just-in-Time (JIT) feature of the eRA Commons is available for applications that meet established business criteria and fall within a certain percentile or priority scoring range. The JIT feature allows a Signing Official to electronically submit additional grant application information that qualifies for submission and is requested by the grantor agency. The additional information is requested after a peer review of a grant application has been completed and prior to funding. Requests may come in the form of eRA-system generated e-mails or contact made directly from the awarding agency via e-mail and/or phone. Applicants should not submit any JIT information until it is requested by the grantor agency.
K
Key Personnel		Personnel considered to be of primary importance to the successful conduct of a research project. The term usually applies to the senior members of the project staff; however, sponsors may have differing definitions of Key Personnel.
L
Lab Animal Resource Center (UTD)		UTD’s on-site vivarium
Letter of Commitment	LOC	A letter, signed by an authorized official, constituting a commitment and a guarantee to provide the described contributions of the named project if selected for funding.
Limitation of Cost		A mandatory clause for cost-reimbursement type contracts. Under the clause, the sponsor is not obligated to reimburse the contractor for costs in excess of the stated amount. The contractor, however, is not obligated to continue performance once expenses reach the stated amount.
Limited Submission		Opportunities that require an internal review to select the limited number of proposals that a sponsor will allow to be submitted by an organization.
M
Matching Grant		A grant that requires a specified portion of the cost of a supported item of equipment or project be obtained from other sources. The required match may be more or less than the amount of the grant. Some matching grants require that the additional funds be obtained from sources outside the recipient organization. Many matching grants are paid in installments, the payments coinciding with the attainment of pre-specified levels of additional funding. Matching grants are very common in the sciences, especially for equipment. They are standard practice in some government agencies. (See also: Challenge Grant)
Maryland Procurement Office (DoD)	MPO	Department of Defense invoicing system. NSA requires invoice submissions use this site.
Material Transfer Agreement	MTA	A Material Transfer Agreement (MTA) is a written contract that governs the transfer of tangible research materials. MTAs define the rights, obligations and restrictions for both the provider and recipient with respect to the materials and any derivatives, and any confidential information exchanged with the material.
Memorandum of Understanding	MOU	A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is a non-binding memorandum between UTD and one or more organizations planning to create a new cooperative research and/or education program.
Minimal Review		All research projects involving human subjects require IRB approval. To qualify for Minimal Review, research must fall into six (6) federally-defined categories, which exempt research from full or expedited IRB review. These categories represent the lowest level of risk to potential participants.
Minimal Risk		A risk is minimal where the probability and magnitude of harm or discomfort anticipated in the proposed research are not greater, in and of themselves, than those ordinarily encountered in daily life or during the performance of routine physical or psychological examinations or tests. For example, the risk of drawing a small amount of blood from a healthy individual for research purposes is no greater than the risk of doing so as part of routine physical examination. The definition of minimal risk for research involving prisoners differs somewhat from that given for no institutionalized adults.
Misconduct in Science		Fabrication, plagiarism, falsification or destruction of data, or other practices that seriously deviate from those that are commonly accepted within the scientific community for proposing, conducting or reporting research. It does not include honest error or honest differences in interpretations or judgments of data.
Mission		A sponsor’s stated purpose, which is designed to address a specified set of problems. Almost all federal research agencies are designated as mission agencies.
Modification		An award document that modifies any aspect of an existing award. Example: Carryover approvals, adding or deleting special terms and conditions, changes in funding levels,  administrative changes initiated by the agency, extensions that include changes in terms, change of principal investigator, etc.
Modified Total Direct Costs	MTDC	Indirect costs may be charged on all, some, or none of the costs incurred under a sponsored agreement depending on the agency involved and the terms of the agreement. UTD uses a Modified Total Direct Costs base that excludes equipment, capital expenditures, charges for patient care, tuition remission, rental costs of off-site facilities, scholarships, and fellowships as well as the portion of each subgrant and subaward in excess of $25,000.
N
National Academy of Sciences	NAS	The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) is a private, non-profit society of distinguished scholars charged with providing independent, objective advice to the nation on matters related to science and technology.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration	NASA	NASA is a leading force in scientific research and in stimulating public interest in aerospace exploration, as well as science and technology in general.
National Association of College and University Business Officers	NACUBO	The National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO) is a membership organization representing more than 2,500 colleges, universities, and higher education service providers across the country and around the world. NACUBO specifically represents chief business and financial officers through advocacy efforts, community service, and professional development activities. The association’s mission is to advance the economic viability and business practices of higher education institutions in fulfillment of their academic missions.
National Cancer Institute (NIH)	NCI	The mission of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) is to stimulate and support scientific discovery and its application to achieve a future when all cancers are uncommon and easily treated. NCI coordinates the National Cancer Program, which conducts and supports research, training, health information dissemination, and other programs with respect to the cause, diagnosis,prevention,and treatment of cancer, rehabilitation from cancer, and the continuing care of cancer patients and the families of cancer patients.
National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NIH)	NCATS	The mission of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) is to catalyze the generation of innovative methods and technologies that will enhance the development, testing and implementation of diagnostics and therapeutics across a wide range of human diseases and conditions.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH)	NCCIH	The mission of NCCIH is to define,through rigorous scientific investigation, the usefulness and safety of complementary and integrative health interventions and their roles in improving health and health care.
National Council of University Research Administrators	NCURA	NCURA is an organization of individuals involved in the administration of sponsored programs at colleges,universities and teaching hospitals. NCURA serves its members and advances the field of research administration through education and professional development programs,the sharing of knowledge and experience, and by fostering a professional, collegial, and respected community.
National Endowment for the Arts	NEA	The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) is an independent grant-making agency of the U.S. government providing national recognition and support to significant projects of artistic excellence, thus preserving and enhancing our nation’s diverse cultural heritage. The NEA is the largest annual national funder of the arts in the United States.
National Endowment for the Humanities	NEH	The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) is an independent grant-making agency of the U.S. government dedicated to supporting research, education, preservation, and public programs in the humanities. It is one of the largest funders of humanities programs in the United States.
National Eye Institute (NIH)	NEI	The mission of the National Eye Institute (NEI) is to conduct and support research that helps prevent and treat eye disease and other disorder of vision. This research leads to sight-saving treatments, reduces visual impairment and blindness, and improves the quality of life for people of all ages.
National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NIH)	NHLBI	The mission of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) is to provide global leadership for a research, training, and education program to promote the prevention and treatment of heart, lung, and blood diseases and enhance the health of all individuals so that they can live longer and more fulfilling lives.
National Human Genome Research Center (NIH)	NHGRI	The mission of the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) encompasses a broad range of studies aimed at understanding the structure and function of the human genome and its role in health and disease. To that end NHGRI supports the development of resources and technology that will accelerate genome research and its application to human health. A critical part of the NHGRI mission continues to be the study of the ethical,legal and social implications (ELSI) of genome research. NHGRI also supports the training of investigators and the dissemination of genome information to the public and to health professionals.
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIH)	NIAID	The mission of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is to conduct and support basic and applied research to better understand, treat,and ultimately prevent infectious, immunologic, and allergic diseases. Key research areas include newly emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and influenza, HIV/AIDS, biodefense, and immune-mediated diseases including asthma and allergy.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIH)	NIAMS	The mission of the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) is to support research into the causes, treatment and prevention of arthritis and musculoskeletal and skin diseases, the training of basic and clinical scientists to carry out this research,and the dissemination of information on research progress in these diseases.
National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIH)	NIBIB	The mission of the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) is to improve health by leading the development and accelerating the application of biomedical technologies. The Institute is committed to integrating the physical and engineering sciences with the life sciences to advance basic research and medical care.
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NIH)	NICHD	The mission of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) is to enhance lives throughout all stages of human development, from preconception through adulthood,improving the health of children, adults, families, communities, and populations. In pursuit of its broad mission, the NICHD conducts and supports laboratory research, clinical trials, and epidemiological studies that explore health processes; examines the impact of disabilities, diseases, and variations on the lives of individuals; and sponsors training programs for scientists, health care providers, and researchers to ensure that NICHD research can continue.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIH)	NIDCR	The mission of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) is to improve oral, dental and craniofacial health through research, research training, and the dissemination of health information.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIH)	NIDDK	The mission of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) is to conduct and support medical research and research training and to disseminate science-based information on diabetes and other endocrine and metabolic diseases; digestive diseases,nutritional disorders, and obesity; and kidney, urologic, and hematologic diseases, to improve people’s health and quality of life.
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIH)	NIEHS	The mission of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is to discover how the environment affects people in order to promote healthier lives.
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIH)	NIGMS	The mission of the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) primarily supports basic biomedical research that is not targeted to specific diseases or disorders.
National Institutes of Health	NIH	The mission of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is to seek fundamental knowledge about the nature and behavior of living systems and the application of that knowledge to enhance health, lengthen life,and reduce illness and disability. NIH is made up of 27 Institutes and Centers, each with a specific research agenda, often focusing on particular diseases or body systems.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIH)	NIMH	The mission of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through basic and clinical research, paving the way for prevention, recovery, and cure.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NIH)	NINDS	The mission of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) is to reduce the burden of neurological disease – a burden borne by every age group, by every segment of society, by people all over the world.
National Institute of Nursing Research (NIH)	NINR	The mission of the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) is to support clinical and basic research to establish a scientific basis for the care of individuals across the life span-from management of patients during illness and recovery to the reduction of risks for disease and disability, the promotion of healthy lifestyles, promoting quality of life in those with chronic illness, and care for individuals at the end of life.
National Institute of Standards and Technology	NIST	NIST’s mission is to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve our quality of life.
NIST 800.171		A set of recommended security requirements implemented by federal agencies for protecting the confidentiality of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) when such information is resident in nonfederal systems and organizations; when the nonfederal organization is not collecting or maintaining information on behalf of a federal agency or using or operating a system on behalf of an agency; and where there are no specific safeguarding requirements for protecting the confidentiality of CUI prescribed by the authorizing law, regulation, or governmentwide policy for the CUI category or subcategory listed in the CUI Registry.
National Institute on Aging (NIH)	NIA	The mission of the National Institute on Aging (NIA) is to understand the nature of aging and to extend the healthy, active years of life. The NIA is the primary federal agency on Alzheimer’s disease research.
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIH)	NIAAA	The mission of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) is to support and conduct research on the impact of alcohol use on human health and well-being. It is the largest funder of alcohol research in the world.
National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIH)	NIDCD	The mission of the National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) is to conduct and support biomedical and behavioral research and research training in the normal and disordered processes of hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech, and language.
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH)	NIDA	The mission of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is to lead the Nation in bringing the power of science to bear on drug abuse and addiction. This charge has two critical components: The first is the strategic support and conduct of research across a broad range of disciplines. The second is to ensure the rapid and effective dissemination and use of the results of that research to significantly improve drug abuse and addiction prevention, treatment and policy.
National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIH)	NIMHD	The mission of the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) is to lead scientific research to improve minority health and eliminate health disparities.
National Library of Medicine (NIH)	NLM	The mission of the National Library of Medicine (NLM) maintains and makes available a vast print collection and produces electronic information resources on a wide range of topics that are searched billions of times each year by millions of people around the globe. It also supports and conducts research, development, and training in biomedical informatics and health information technology.
National Science Foundation	NSF	The National Science Foundation is an independent agency of the U.S. Government. NSF’s mission is to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity and welfare; and to secure the national defense.
National Security Agency	NSA	The National Security Agency/Central Security Service (NSA/CSS) leads the U.S. Government in cryptology that encompasses both Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) and Information Assurance (IA) products and services, and enables Computer Network Operations (CNO) in order to gain a decision advantage for the Nation and our allies under all circumstances.
New and Competing Proposals		Proposals that are submitted for the first time or ongoing projects that must re-compete for funding prior to expiration of the original award.
New Award		An award not previously awarded or a renewal or continuation award treated as a new award by the sponsor and given a new agency number.
No Cost Extension	NCE	An extension of the period of performance beyond the expiration date to allow the principal investigator to finish a project. No additional costs are provided.
Non-Disclosure Agreement	NDA	A non-disclosure agreement (NDA), also known as a confidentiality agreement (CA), confidential disclosure agreement (CDA), proprietary information agreement (PIA), or secrecy agreement, is a legal contract between at least two parties that outlines confidential material, knowledge, or information that the parties wish to share with one another for certain purposes, but wish to restrict access to or by third parties.
Notice of Award	NoA	The legally binding document that serves as a notification to the recipient and others that a grant or cooperative agreement has been made; contains or references all terms of the award; and documents the obligation of funds.
O
Objectivity in Research		Used in conflict of interest policies to indicate concern for the potential impact of an individual’s financial interests upon the design, conduct or reporting of research or educational activities.
Off-campus Research		Any research that takes place at a site other than UTD. The IDC rate for off-campus research is 26%.
Office for Human Research Protections	OHRP	An office within the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for implementing DHHS regulations (45 CFR Part 46) governing research involving human subjects.
Office of Federal Procurement Policy	OFPP	OFPP provides overall direction for government-wide procurement policies, regulations and procedures and to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in acquisition processes.
Office of Foreign Assets Control	OFAC	The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the US Department of the Treasury administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions based on US foreign policy and national security goals against targeted foreign countries and regimes, terrorists, international narcotics traffickers, those engaged in activities related to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and other threats to the national security, foreign policy or economy of the United States.
Office of Inspector General	OIG	Office of Inspector General’s (OIG) mission is to protect the integrity of Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) programs as well as the health and welfare of program beneficiaries. Since its 1976 establishment,OIG has been at the forefront of the Nation’s efforts to fight waste, fraud and abuse in Medicare, Medicaid and more than 300 other HHS programs.
Office of Lab Animal Welfare (NIH)	OLAW	The mission of the Office of Lab Animal Welfare (OLAW) is to provide guidance and interpretation of the Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, support educational programs, and monitors compliance with the Policy by Assured institutions and PHS funding components to ensure the humane care and use of animals in PHS-supported research, testing, and training, thereby contributing to the quality of PHS-supported activities.
Office of Management Assessment (NIH)	OMA	The Office of Management Assessment (OMA)provides NIH-wide management of activities/oversight and advice to the NIH Institutes and Centers on management reviews/corrective actions involving program integrity (fraud/waste/abuse/mismanagement reviews), OIG/GAO/Outside review liaison, management control, quality management, best practices, continuous improvement, regulations, delegations of authority, A-76/FAIR Act and NIH Privacy Center requirements, records and forms management, organizational and functional analysis, NIH manual chapters, and guidance and oversight on the control and safeguarding of classified national security information.
Office of Management and Budget	OMB	Part of the Executive Office of the President, OMB works cooperatively with the grant making agencies and the grantee community to lead development of government wide policy to assure that grants are managed properly and that federal dollars are spent in accordance with applicable laws and regulations (See Uniform Guidance). OMB does not award grants.
Office of Naval Research	ONR	The Office of Naval Research (ONR) coordinates, executes, and promotes the science and technology programs of the United States Navy and Marine Corps through schools, universities, government laboratories, and nonprofit and for-profit organizations. It provides technical advice to the Chief of Naval Operations and the Secretary of the Navy and works with industry to improve technology manufacturing processes.
Office of Post-Award Management (UTD)	OPM	The Office of Post Award Management provides the following services to the University community: Provides central oversight for the post-award fiscal activities of all sponsored projects; Establishes sponsored projects cost center and budgets; Maintains the time and effort reporting systems for sponsored programs; Ensures compliance with applicable federal and state rules and regulations governing the compliance administration of sponsored projects; Creates and promulgates sponsored programs compliance administration policies and procedure; Develops training materials and conducts training programs on compliance sponsored program administration; Partners with PI, SPO, and Divisional Administration to ensure compliance with award terms and conditions, University, and Sponsor policies; Reviews and validates transactions to support research; Liaison between Research and Billing/Accounts Receivable office.
Office of Public Health and Science	OPHS	The Office of Public Health and Science (OPHS) is under the direction of the Assistant Secretary for Health, who serves as the Senior Advisor on public health and science issues to the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). The Office serves as the focal point for leadership and coordination across the Department in public health and science; provides direction to program offices within OPHS; and provides advice and counsel on public health and science issues to the Secretary.
Office of Research Compliance (UTD)	ORC	The Office of Research Compliance provides information on research activities which are governed by a number of research oversight committees and boards imposed by federal and state laws. Non-compliance can result in severe penalties to the institution, and in some instances, to the individual. It is the responsibility of faculty and staff to be familiar with UT Dallas policy as it relates to these research compliance areas.
Office of Research Integrity	ORI	The Office of Research Integrity (ORI) oversees and directs Public Health Service (PHS) research integrity activities on behalf of the Secretary of Health and Human Services with the exception of the regulatory research integrity activities of the Food and Drug Administration.
Office of Sponsored Projects (UTD)	OSP	The Office of Sponsored Projects serves as the coordinating office for externally funded research projects submitted by The University of Texas at Dallas. OSP notifies researchers regarding funding opportunities and sponsor policies and procedures; provides technical assistance to researchers drafting proposals, review, and process proposals for submission to sponsoring agencies; negotiates terms for awards and contracts; receives award documents from Sponsors and forwards to Post Award Management for creation of a cost center; and assists with non-financial post‐award administrative functions.
Office of Technology Commercialization (UTD)	OTC	The Office of Technology Commercialization works with university researchers and external partners to bring the fruits of university innovation to the public through commercialization.
Operations and Applications for Research (UTD)	OAR	Portal for the UTD Office of Research and Innovation functions.
Other Transaction Authority	OTA	An other transaction (OT) is a special vehicle used by federal agencies for obtaining or advancing research and development (R&D) or prototypes. An OT is not a contract, grant, or cooperative agreement, and there is no statutory or regulatory definition of “other transaction.” Only those agencies that have been provided OT authority may engage in other transactions.
P
Patent		A patent for an invention is the grant of a property right from a country’s patent office to the inventor which excludes others from making, using, offering for sale, selling or importing the invention into the country that granted the patent. US patent grants are effectively only within the territories of the United States and are granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. To seek patent protection in other countries, a patent application must be made to the individual country’s patent office and that office must grant the patent. Public disclosure of inventions eliminates application for foreign patent protection and limits protection to the US and that is assuming a patent application is filed to the USPTO within one year of public disclosure.
Patent Cooperation Treaty	PCT	The Patent Cooperation Treaty created a patent application that is standardized across 146 member countries of which the United States is a designated member. The PCT allows patent applicants to simultaneously seek patent protection for an invention in all 146 countries with the filing of one international patent application.
Patent Pending		Term used to inform the public that an application for a patent on that article or process is on file in the Patent Office.
Peer Review		A system using reviewers who are the professional equals of the principal investigator or a program director who is to be responsible for directing or conducting the proposed project. It is a form of objective review. Peer review is legislatively mandated in some programs and in other programs is administratively required.
Percentile (NIH)		As used by NIH in relation to peer review: represents the relative position or rank of each priority score (along a 100.0 percentile band) among the scores assigned by a particular study section.
PHS Policy		PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. Document that implements the Health Research Extension Act of 1985, and governs activities involving animals conducted or supported by PHS agencies.
PIVOT		Pivot allows the ability to identify and connect funding opportunities to researchers at their institution. Its proprietary algorithm compiles pre-populated researcher profiles and matches them to current funding opportunities in the expansive COS database, allowing users to search for a funding opportunity and instantly view matching faculty from inside or outside their institution.
Post-Award		In the context of the life cycle of a contract or a grant, the post-award period begins after award negotiation and acceptance and ends after closeout of the award.
Pre-Award		In the context of the life cycle of a contract or grant, the pre-award period begins with project development and concludes after the award negotiation and acceptance.
Pre-award Funding		Authorization to expend funds on a project to a specified limit before the award document has been received from the sponsor.
Pre-Proposal		A brief description, usually 2-10 pages, of research plans and estimated budget that is sometimes submitted to determine the interest of a particular sponsor prior to submission of a formal proposal. Also termed Preliminary Proposal, White Paper, or Concept Paper.
Prime Award		In the context of subawards and subcontracts, the prime award is the award made directly from the sponsor to the recipient institution. When a recipient institution makes a subaward or subcontract under the terms and conditions of the award to a second organization, the sponsor’s award is labeled the prime award and the terms and conditions are generally included as part of the agreement to the subaward or subcontract site.
Principal Investigator	PI	The scientist or scholar with primary responsibility for the scientific, technical and administrative conduct of a funded research project.
Prior Approval		The requirement for written documentation of permission to use project funds for purposes not in the approved budget or to change aspects of the program from those originally planned and approved. Prior approval must be obtained before the performance of the act that requires such approval under the terms of the agreement.
Prior Art		Any publicly available subject matter (for example, patents, publications, abstracts, etc.) bearing on the novelty and non-obviousness of a claimed invention.
Priority Score (NIH)		A numerical rating that reflects the scientific merit of the proposed research relative to the “state of the science.” The score is derived from the rating given a research proposal by each member on a review committee. It is used to help determine which approved proposals will be granted awards, based on funds available.
Program Announcement	PA	Describes existence of a research opportunity. It may describe new or expanded interest in a particular extramural program or be a reminder of a continuing interest in an extramural program.
Program Income		Gross income earned by a grantee that is directly generated by the grant-supported project or activity or earned as a result of the award.
Program/Project Officer	PO	A sponsor’s designated individual who is officially responsible for the scientific and technical aspects of a particular grant or cooperative agreement. Serves as the counterpart to UTD’s Principal Investigator.
Progress Report		Periodic, scheduled reports required by the sponsor summarizing research progress to date. Technical, fiscal and invention reports may be required.
Project Period		The total time for which support of a project has been programmatically approved. A project period may consist of one or more budget periods. (See also: Budget Period)
Proposal		An application for funding that contains all information necessary to describe project plans, staff capabilities and funds requested. Formal proposals are officially approved and submitted by an organization in the name of a principal investigator.
Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide (NSF)	PAPPG	The Proposal Award Policies Procedures Guide (PAPPG) is comprised of documents relating to the Foundation’s proposal and award process for the assistance programs of NSF.
Protected Health Information	PHI	Personal and/or individually identifiable health information about an individual that is transmitted or maintained in any form or medium by a covered entity (including a health plan, healthcare clearinghouse, health care provider), or its business associates acting for the covered entity. PHI contains identifiers that could be linked to a specific individual, such as initials or address. This includes identifiable demographic and other information relating to the past, present,or future physical or mental health or condition of an individual, or the provision or payment of health care.
Protocol		The formal design or plan of an experiment or research activity; specifically,the plan submitted to an IRB for review and to an agency for research support. The protocol includes a description of the research design or methodology to be employed, the eligibility requirements for prospective subjects and controls, the treatment regimen(s) and the proposed methods of analysis that will be performed on the collected data.
Public Health Service	PHS	The PHS is part of the DHHS and includes AHRQ, CDC, FDA, SAMHSA, HRSA, and NIH.
Q
R
Radiation Safety Committee (NIH)	RSC	The Radiation Safety Committee (RSC) is responsible for oversight of the NIH Radiation Safety Program to ensure the safe use of radioactive materials and all sources of ionizing radiation throughout NIH and those NIH-occupied buildings included in the NIH Radiation Safety Program. The RSC is responsible for formulating policy with regard to radiation protection matters in the intramural research programs that involve NIH employees and members of the general public, routine clinical and clinical research programs, and protection of the environment to ensure compliance with federal regulations, including those of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Rebudget		The act of amending the budget by moving funds from one category or line item to another. (See also: Budget Adjustment) Some funding agencies require prior approval before re-budgeting can occur.
Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee	RAC	The Recombinant DNA advisory Committee is the public advisory committee that advises the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Secretary, the DHHS Assistant Secretary for Health and the NIH Director concerning recombinant DNA research.
Regulations		The contractual rules and procedures governing sponsored research projects.
Regulatory Noncompliance		Failure to adhere to regulations, policies, procedures or special conditions related to the conduct of research. Examples of such noncompliance include, but are not limited to, failure to obtain/maintain approval for research; coercion of human subjects; performing unapproved procedures; and conducting research at unapproved sites.
Renewal		Applicable to grants and cooperative agreements only. A competitively reviewed proposal requesting additional funds extending the scope of work beyond the current project period.
Request for Applications	RFA	Announcements that indicate the availability of funds for a topic of specific interest to a sponsor. Proposals submitted in response to RFAs generally result in the award of a grant. Specific grant announcements may be published in the Federal Register and/or specific sponsor publications.
Request for Proposal	RFP	Announcements that specify a topic of research, methods to be used, product to be delivered and appropriate applicants sought. Proposals submitted in response to RFPs generally result in the award of a contract.
Request for Quotations	RFQ	A formal request to vendors for a price quotation on equipment or supplies to be purchased.
Research		A systematic investigation (i.e.,the gathering and analysis of information) designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge.
Research.gov (NSF)		Online grants management for the NSF Community. Replaces FastLane.
Research Enhancement Fund	REF	Upon receipt of an award,the IDC split of 10% that goes to the Principal Investigator (PI) is identified as the research enhancement fund. This may be used for the furtherance of a PI’s research activities.
Research Experiences for Teachers (NSF)	RET	Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) supports the active involvement of K-12 science, technology, engineering,computer and information science, and mathematics (STEM) teachers and community college faculty research in order to bring knowledge of engineering, computer science, and technological innovation into their classrooms.
Research Experiences for Undergraduates (NSF)	REU	The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program supports active research participation by undergraduate students in any of the areas of research funded by the National Science Foundation. (1) REU Sites are based on independent proposals to initiate and conduct projects that engage a number of students in research. (2) REU Supplements may be included as a component of proposals for new or renewal NSF grants or cooperative agreements or may be requested for ongoing NSF-funded research projects.
Research Performance Progress Report	RPPR	System to standardize recipient reporting on federally-funded research projects for submission of required annual or other interim performance reporting on research grant and cooperative agreement awards.
Research Services Agreement	RSA	A Research Services Agreement (RSA) is a contract that governs the scope (very narrow scope), time frame (short time frame), cost, and deliverables for testing, modeling,etc. in technical detail a product, product component, method, or idea of a company.
Responsible Conduct of Research (UTD)	RCR	Students, postdocs, faculty, and staff who participate in research at UT Dallas or any of its related centers or institutes may be required to participate in Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training as part of their participation in federally sponsored research or as required in undergraduate or graduate research training programs.
Review (of research)		The concurrent oversight of research on a periodic basis by an IRB. In addition to,at least the annual reviews mandated by the federal regulations, reviews may, if deemed appropriate, also be conducted on a continuous or periodic basis [Federal Policy β .108(e)].
Revision		A modified and resubmitted request for funding for a project that was previously not funded either because it was denied by the sponsor or withdrawn by the principal investigator.
S
School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology, Harry W. Bass Jr. (UTD)	AHT	The Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology prepares global citizens who investigate and explore complex issues, innovate new forms of expression, and engage communities to advance the common good by promoting curiosity, critical thinking, communication, and cross-cultural understanding.
School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences (UTD)	BBS	The mission of the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences is to understand the intersection of mind, brain and behavior; enhance the health, education ,and quality of life of children and families; and create and implement technologies and therapies that repair and strengthen human abilities. BBS accomplishes these goals by recruiting and supporting outstanding faculty to conduct innovative research and student training in a climate that fosters collaboration across disciplines.
School of Engineering and Computer Science, Erik Jonsson (UTD)	ECS	The mission of the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science is to deliver state-of-the-art high-technology engineering degree programs for Dallas and Collin Counties, the DFW Metroplex and the State of Texas; Produce versatile students infused not only with technical skills,but also with innovative and entrepreneurial skills; Address problems of critical societal need through research aimed at the creation of new engineering knowledge and technology transfer to industry; Develop partnerships with government and the private sector to apply new knowledge for economic growth and high-tech job creation in order to strengthen existing regional firms, promote the growth of new regional firms and create new high-paying private sector jobs; and Provide leadership and outreach to nurture tomorrow’s leaders in science, mathematics and high-technology education and business.
School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences (UTD)	EPPS	The School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences provides students with an opportunity to learn about our society and economy, then apply this knowledge when they graduate, taking leading roles in advancing positive change on a local, national or global level.
School of Interdisciplinary Studies (UTD)	IS	The School of Interdisciplinary Studies provides an environment that allows students to understand and integrate the liberal arts and sciences. IS’s interdisciplinary degree programs give students an opportunity to design their degree plans on an individualized basis. The School also provides a unique structure, including an internship program that arranges professional work experience in diverse career settings.
School of Management, Naveen Jindal (UTD)	JSOM	The Jindal School of Management’s mission is to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing, technology-driven, global society by partnering with the business community to conduct research enhancing management knowledge, deliver high-quality management education to a diverse group of undergraduate and graduate students and practicing executives, and develop, innovate, and continuously improve programs advancing management education and practice.
School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (UTD)	NSM	UT Dallas’ School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics offers degree programs for undergraduate and graduate students in biology, chemistry, geosciences, mathematics and physics, as well as a graduate program in science/mathematics education. Our UTeach Dallas program offers undergraduate students the possibility of completing the requirements for high-school teacher certification alongside their degrees.
Scientific Misconduct		Fabrication, falsification, plagiarism or other practices that seriously deviate from those that are commonly accepted within the academic community for proposing, conducting, or reporting research.
Scientific Review Branch (NIH)	SRB	The Scientific Review Branch (SRB) is responsible for the initial scientific and technical merit review of grant applications and contract proposals submitted to the NIH.
Scientific Review Group (NIH)	SRG	A group of highly regarded experts in a given field convened to advise NIH on the scientific merit of applications for research grants and contracts. Scientific review groups are also required to review the ethical aspects of proposed involvement of human subjects. Various kinds of scientific review groups exist ,and are known by different names in different institutes of the NIH (e.g., Study Sections, Initial Review Groups, Contract Review Committees or Technical Evaluation Committees.)
Scientific Review Officer (NIH)	SRO	The scientific review officers (SROs), formerly scientific review administrators,are extramural staff scientists and the designated federal official play a pivotal role in identifying the most meritorious scientific research for support using federal resources. The SRO is responsible for ensuring that each application, and research and development proposal, submitted to SRB receives an objective and fair initial peer review,and that all applicable laws, regulations, and policies are followed.
Scope of Work	SOW	The description of the work to be performed and completed on a research project. Also referred to as “Statement of Work.”
Senior Personnel		Professional personnel who are responsible for the scientific or technical direction of the project.
Service mark	SM	The same as a trademark, except that it identifies and distinguishes the source of a service rather than a product.
Single IRB	sIRB	The goal of the Single IRB is to enhance and streamline the IRB review process for multi-site research so that research can proceed as quickly as possible without compromising ethical principles and protections for human research participants.
Site Visit		A visit by agency officials, representatives or consultants to the location of a research activity to assess the adequacy of IRB protection of human subjects or the capability of personnel to conduct the research.
Small Business Administration	SBA	The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) was created as an independent agency of the federal government to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns, to preserve free competitive enterprise and to maintain and strengthen the overall economy of our nation.
Small Business Innovative Research	SBIR	Agency administered programs supported by ear-marked federal funds, making grants to small business entities.
Small Business Technology Transfer	STTR	Grant applications and/or programs to fund small business “teamed” with research institutions.
Small Grant		A special type of award, often limited to a beginning researcher. Typically, such an award may be obtained for one year only.
Society of Research Administrators	SRA	The Society of Research Administrators International is a nonprofit association dedicated to advancing the profession and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of research administration.
Social Security Administration	SSA	Social Security Administration is a federal agency whose mission is to promote the economic security of the nation’s people through compassionate and vigilant leadership in shaping and managing America’s social security programs. Virtually all of SSA’s administrative resources are committed to the management of three major programs: the Old Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI) program, the Disability Insurance (DI) program, and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.
Sponsor		The organization or entity that funds a research project.
Sponsored Projects	OSP	The Office of Sponsored Projects serves as the coordinating office for externally funded research projects submitted by The University of Texas at Dallas. (See also: Office of Sponsored Projects.)
Sponsored Research Agreement	SRA	A Sponsored Research Agreement (SRA) is a contract between UTD and a non-federal sponsor for the purposes of funding and conducting research at UTD.
Stipend		A payment made to an individual under a fellowship or training grant in accordance with pre-established levels to provide for the individual’s living expenses during the period of training. A stipend is not considered compensation for the services expected of an employee.
Study Section		See: Scientific Review Group
Subcontract, Subaward, Subgrant or Subagreement	Sub	A document written under the authority of, and consistent with the terms and conditions of an award (a grant,contract or cooperative agreement),that transfers a portion of the research or substantive effort of the prime award to another institution or organization.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration	SAMHSA	An agency of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) charged with improving the quality and availability of prevention, treatment and rehabilitative services in order to reduce illness, death, disability and cost to society resulting from substance abuse and mental illness. Includes the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment and the Center on Mental Health Services.
Summary Statement (NIH)		Used by NIH in relation to the peer review: a combination of the reviewer’s written comments and the SRA’s summary of the members’ discussion during the study section meeting. It includes the recommendations of the study section, a recommended budget and administrative notes of special considerations.
Supplemental (Rebudgeting or Modification) Proposal		A request to the sponsor for additional funds for an ongoing project during the previously approved performance period. A supplemental proposal may result from increased costs, modifications in design or a desire to add a closely related component to the ongoing project.
System for Award Management	SAM	The System for Award Management (SAM) is the Official U.S. Government system that consolidated the capabilities of CCR/FedReg, ORCA, and EPLS.
T
Task Order Agreement	TOA	A legally binding document authorizing work and appropriating funds as a supplement to a basic contract or master agreement.
Teaming Agreement		An agreement between two or more parties to participate in a research project or teaching activity.
Technical Data		Recorded information, regardless of form or characteristic, of a scientific or technical nature. Often referred to as the “science” of a proposal.
Technology Control Plan	TCP	A Technology Control Plan (TCP) helps ensure that controlled materials will not be accessed by unauthorized persons. The need for a plan occurs whenever export controlled items or data are present on campus or when UTD personnel are using controlled materials while not under the direct control of the provider.
Technology Transfer		Technology transfer is a process involving assessing an invention disclosure (technology), patenting the technology, marketing and finally licensing the technology or forming start-up companies based on the technology. (See also: OTC)
Terms of Award		All legal requirements imposed on an agreement by the sponsor, whether by statute, regulation(s) or terms in the award document. The terms of an agreement may include both standard and special provisions that are considered necessary to protect the sponsor’s interests.
Texas Advanced Computing Center	TACC	The University of Texas Research Cyberinfrastructure (UTRC) initiative provides advanced computing capabilities to researchers across all 14 UT System institutions. TACC provides high performance computing, visualization, data analysis, storage, software,and cloud, gateways to portal interfaces.
Texas Education Agency	TEA	The Texas Education Agency (TEA) provides leadership, guidance, and resources to help schools meet the educational needs of all students. The TEA administers the distribution of state and federal funding to public schools, statewide assessment program and accountability system, data collection system on public school information, and monitors for compliance with state and federal guidelines.
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board	THECB	The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board was created in 1965 by the Texas Legislature to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system. The board works with the Legislature, Governor, governing boards, and higher education institutions as well as other entities to help Texas meet the goals of the state’s higher education plan.
Total Direct Costs	TDC	The total of all allowable direct costs of a project.
Total Project Costs		The total allowable direct and indirect costs incurred by the institution to carry out an approved project or activity.
Trade secret		Information that companies keep secret to give them an advantage over their competitors. The formula for Coca-Cola is the most famous trade secret. No registration is required and the Trade Secret is valid as long as it is kept a secret from the public.
Trademark	TM/ ®	Trademark is a symbol, design, picture, word, phrase or a combination of words, phrases, symbols or designs, that identifies and distinguishes the source of the goods of one party from those of others. The owner of a trademark has exclusive right to use it on the product it was intended to identify and often on related products and may use the symbol TM to let the public know that the mark is a trademark. The symbol ® can only be used in the United States if the trademark is federally registered with the USPTO. Rights in a federally-registered trademark can last indefinitely if the owner continues to use the mark on or in connection with the goods and/or services in registration and files all necessary documentation in the USPTO at the appropriate times.
U
Uniform Guidance		In effect December 26, 2014 and published by the federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB), this guidance supersedes and streamlines requirements from OMB Circulars A-21, A-87, A-110, and A-122; Circulars A-89, A-102, and A-133; and the guidance in Circular A-50 on Single Audit Act follow-up. This guidance provides a governmentwide framework for grants management which will be complemented by additional efforts to strengthen program outcomes through innovative and effective use of grant-making models, performance metrics, and evaluation.
Unilateral Award		An award made by a sponsor to an organization without considering competitive proposals. Unilateral awards are most often made when unsolicited proposals receive favorable treatment.
Unique Entity Identifier	UEI	A unique number for businesses and required in order to do business with the federal government. Replaces the SAMs number and goes into effect April 2022.
United States Department of Agriculture	USDA	USDA provides leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition, and related issues based on sound public policy, the best available science, and efficient management.
USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Animal Care	USDA, APHIS, AC	The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is a multi-faceted Agency with a broad mission area that includes protecting and promoting U.S. agricultural health, regulating genetically engineered organisms, administering the Animal Welfare Act and carrying out wildlife damage management activities. Within APHIS, Animal Care (AC) is the agency that is responsible for ensuring compliance with the Animal Welfare Regulations.
U.S. Government Principles	Principles	United States Government Principles for the Utilization and Care of Vertebrate Animals Used in Testing, Research, and Training. Nine principles that provide a foundation for humane care and use of animals in the United States.
United States Code	USC	The Code is a consolidation and codification by subject matter of the general and permanent laws of the United States. For example, the United States Code includes all of the patent statues (Title 35, beginning at section 1), all of the copyright statues (Title 17, beginning at section 1) and all the trademarks statues (Title 15, beginning at section 1051).
United States Patent and Trademark Office	USPTO	The US Patent and Trademark Office is a federal agency whose mission is to foster innovation and competitiveness by: Providing high quality and timely examination of patent and trademark applications, guiding domestic and international intellectual property policy, and delivering intellectual property information and education worldwide. The office’s major function is the examination and issuance of patents and the examination and registration of trademarks.
United States Provisional Application for a Patent		A U.S. provisional application for patent (U.S. provisional) is a U.S. national application for patent filed in the USPTO. Contrary to foreign countries, a US provisional can be filed within one year of publically disclosing an invention. However, if the public disclosure occurs before filing the US Provisional, the applicant cannot apply for foreign patent protection therefore, potentially losing the monopoly of selling that technology in those foreign countries. A U.S. provisional has a pendency lasting 12 months from the date the provisional application is filed. The 12-month pendency period cannot be extended. Therefore, an applicant who files a provisional application must file a corresponding non-provisional application (such as a US Utility and/or PCT international patent application) for patent during the 12-month pendency period of the provisional application in order to benefit from the earlier filing of the provisional application.
Unrestricted Funds		Monies with no requirements or restrictions as to use or disposition. Grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements are considered to be restricted funds, while gifts are usually considered unrestricted funds.
Unsolicited Proposal(s)		Proposals submitted to a sponsor that are not in response to an RFP, RFA or program announcement. (See also: Investigator-Initiated Proposal)
Utility Patent		Description of a patent that relates to patent protection of compositions of matter (compounds), useful processes and machines.
V
Venture Development Center	VDC	The Venture Development Center is a dedicated facility housing spinoff companies affiliated with UT Dallas. VDC staff and its Advisory Board of experienced entrepreneurs and investors team with Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC) staff and Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at UT Dallas (IIE) and Faculty to provide mentoring, accounting services, entrepreneurial education, showcase opportunities, and connectivity to investors and professional service providers.
Veterans Affairs	VA	The Department of Veterans Affairs is responsible for providing federal benefits to veterans and their dependents. Headed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, VA, operates nationwide programs of health care, financial assistance, and national cemeteries.
W
World Intellectual Property Organization	WIPO	The World Intellectual Property Organization’s mission is to promote innovation and creativity for the economic, social and cultural development of all countries, through a balanced and effective international intellectual property system.
X
Y
Z

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z