of support of a center under this subsection, the Director may renew support for the center, on a merit-reviewed basis, for a period of not more than 5 years. (6) Termination Consistent with the existing authorities of the Department, the Director may terminate an underperforming center for cause during the performance period. (c) Low-Dose radiation research program (1) In general The Secretary shall carry out a basic research program on low-dose and low dose-rate radiation to— (A) enhance the scientific understanding of, and reduce uncertainties associated with, the effects of exposure to low-dose and low dose-rate radiation