Reduction of Effort Research Matters Forum › Category: Award management › Reduction of Effort 0 Vote Up Vote Down Karen Barnes asked 9 years ago Do you need prior NIH approval for a reduction of PI effort on an R or K series award during the no-cost extension period? 1 Answers 0 Vote Up Vote Down dmeyer answered 9 years ago The PI must commit the same level of effort as indicated in the original award. If he/she wishes to decrease his/her effort prior approval is required from NIH Grants Management Specialist.