Lesson Library

Structured study modules by CRA domain.

Module 1

Introduction to Research Administration

Federal funding landscape, funding instruments, office organization, pre/post-award functions, and key players.

Module 2

Proposal Development

Finding funding, funding announcements, proposal components, budget basics, cost allowability, and certifications.

Module 3

Cost Principles & Budgeting

2 CFR 200, four allowability tests, unallowable costs, cost transfers (NIH 90-day rule), and program income methods.

Module 4

F&A / MTDC Mastery Calculator

Interactive calculator for the four canonical F&A and MTDC scenarios with worked examples and exam tips.

Module 5

Award Administration

Financial management, internal controls, prior approvals, subrecipient monitoring, reporting, closeout, and Single Audit.

Module 6

National Institutes of Health (NIH)

NIH structure, grant numbers, activity codes, budget policies, peer review, NoA, RPPR, prior approvals, and RCR.

Module 7

Export Controls, RCR & FCOI

EAR/ITAR/OFAC, deemed exports, fundamental research exclusion, RCR requirements, SFI thresholds, and research misconduct.

Module 8

National Science Foundation (NSF)

NSF structure, NSB role, NSF-vs-NIH differences, proposal components, budget rules, RAPID/EAGER/RAISE, reporting, and DGA.

Module 9

Human Subjects Research

Belmont principles, the Common Rule (45 CFR 46), IRB review categories, informed consent elements, vulnerable populations, and OHRP.

Module 10

Biosafety & Biohazards

BSL levels, select agents, IBC requirements, DURC, radiation safety (ALARA), and key regulatory bodies.

Module 11

Animal Welfare in Research

AWA vs PHS Policy, IACUC requirements, the Three Rs, protocol review, OLAW, and AAALAC accreditation.

Module 12

Federal Contracting & the FAR

Contracts vs grants, FAR supplements, contract types, procurement thresholds, TINA, CAS, terminations, bonds, debarment, and SAM.gov.

Module 13

Intellectual Property in Research

Forms of IP, Bayh-Dole Act, march-in rights, federal reporting timelines, iEdison, CREATE Act, technology transfer, and licensing.

Module 14

General Management & Compliance

Org models, HR (EEOC/FMLA), FFATA, FOIA, FERPA, HIPAA, Clery, Fly America, Stevens, FAPIIS, E-Verify, FISMA, and the False Claims Act.

Module 15

100-Question Timed CRA Practice Examination — 2 Hours 30 Minutes

Full 2.5-hour timed CRA Practice Examination. Domain breakdown, score report, and review mode with explanations.

Module 16

The CRA Blueprint

The insider's capstone: exam structure, domain deep dives, live BOK note capture, 2024–2026 regulatory updates, exam day strategy, cross-domain connections, and a personal study plan.

More modules are coming soon. Check back as we publish additional lessons.