I think this is different in the sense that there is no physical item with a delivery expected. Your false-starts bring up a good point. There should be a stat

I think this is different in the sense that there is no physical item with a delivery expected. Your false-starts bring up a good point. There should be a stated backup plan for failed studies--like giving the money to research project X, or returning it to donors. An honorable way to end the research, with a reputation system could be a great thing.