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May 20 2025
3Federally funded research has long been a cornerstone of American innovation, contributing to technological advancements and medical breakthroughs. Between 2010 and 2019, 354 out of 356 drugs approved by the FDA originated from federally funded projects. Moreover, such research bolsters local economies, generating over $94 billion in activity across the U.S. in 2024. However, recent policy changes have put these benefits at risk.
In February 2025, the Trump administration announced a cap on indirect costs for federally funded grants, limiting them to 15%. This move aimed to redirect more funds directly to research but was met with widespread criticism. Indirect costs cover essential expenses like facility maintenance, utilities, and administrative support. The cap threatened the financial stability of research institutions, potentially leading to layoffs and reduced research capacity. Although a federal judge temporarily blocked the NIH from enforcing this cap, uncertainty remains as similar policies are considered by other agencies.
Simultaneously, executive orders led to the cancellation of over $1.5 billion in grants focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). These cuts have disrupted numerous research projects, particularly those aimed at addressing health disparities and promoting inclusivity in science.
In response to these challenges, scientists and institutions are actively advocating for the importance of federal research funding. At the University of California, Davis, the "From Labs to Lives" initiative was launched to communicate the real-world impacts of scientific research. This campaign features fact sheets and videos where scientists discuss their work and its societal benefits.
One such scientist is Dr. Theanne Griffith, a neuroscientist at UC Davis. Her research focuses on how sensory neurons interact with muscles and motor neurons, with implications for improving cancer patient care. Dr. Griffith's work was funded through a program designed to enhance faculty diversity, making it vulnerable under the new policies. Recognizing the threat to her research, she became actively involved in public advocacy, participating in events like "Stand Up for Science" and contributing to the "From Labs to Lives" initiative.
Dr. Griffith emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives in scientific research, stating, "We need diverse minds tackling big questions because we all have our intrinsic bias. We all have our blind spots." She highlighted that cutting DEI-focused funding not only undermines inclusivity but also hampers scientific progress.
The UC Davis initiative also provides resources for policymakers, including fact sheets detailing the economic and societal impacts of federally funded research. These materials have been instrumental in informing elected officials and advocating for the continuation of research funding.
Beyond UC Davis, the scientific community nationwide is mobilizing to protect research funding. Organizations like the American Brain Coalition are compiling data to demonstrate the consequences of funding cuts. Dr. Griffith, serving on the coalition's board, noted that having accessible information allows for effective communication with policymakers.
The broader scientific community warns that continued funding cuts could have long-term detrimental effects on innovation, public health, and the economy. They stress that federal investment in research is not only about scientific discovery but also about maintaining the nation's global leadership in science and technology.
As debates over research funding continue, scientists like Dr. Griffith are stepping beyond their laboratories to engage with the public and policymakers, emphasizing that the future of scientific innovation depends on sustained federal support.
Source:https://www.the-scientist.com/the-peer-profile-program-72792
This is non-financial/medical advice and made using AI so could be wrong.
