<Subtle Research Awards Scenarios> 
1. Soft Blue - 
                            
                            #C8D9E5
                         - A muted blue that suggests professionalism and calmness, suitable for representing the baseline scenario.
2. Warm Amber - 
                            
                            #E0B200
                         - A gentle amber that conveys a sense of caution without being too aggressive, ideal for highlighting the potential impact of deactivating awards.
3. Light Grey - 
                            
                            #D7D7D7
                         - A light grey that serves as a neutral background, ensuring that the main colors appear sophisticated and unobtrusive.
4. Gentle Green - 
                            
                            #A8D5BA
                         - A soft green that indicates stability, representing the positive outcomes of the scenarios in a subtle way.
5. Muted Burgundy - 
                            
                            #7B2A2A
                         - A subdued burgundy that communicates concern without overwhelming the viewer, highlighting the negative consequences of the scenarios.

This revised color palette maintains a professional tone while ensuring subtlety. The colors are softened to provide a more understated visual experience, making it suitable for a formal Excel workbook.

Would you like to explore any additional variations or perhaps consider font styles that complement this palette?