Either way is fine

First, try to sublease it. It'll cost you the least, unless the leasing office won't allow you to do it.

In the meanwhile, consult with an attorney (if your institute has one to provide legal assistance, or just an external one). I guess 2 months buy-out is reasonable in most places.

Before I move in, I would usually ask the office how much I need to pay if I have to move out due to a job relocation. If they can write it down, it will be much easier to argue when you get to that point.