The US government is set to cut funding for medical research by $4 billion, citing high overhead costs associated with grant recipients. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) says the cuts will apply to existing grants and could force some universities to stop doing essential research.
Critics argue that the policy change will disproportionately affect small and disadvantaged institutions, making it harder for them to compete with larger research centers. Senator Patty Murray has called the move “dismantling the biomedical research system” and warns that patients may lose access to new treatments.
NIH officials say the cuts are necessary to ensure that funds are being used efficiently. However, experts disagree, citing studies that show indirect costs – such as lab equipment and support staff – can have a significant economic impact.
The NIH supports over 50,000 researchers at more than 2,500 institutions nationwide, with most of its funding going towards direct research expenses. The agency’s director, Dr. Francis Collins, has vowed to work with lawmakers to find a solution that balances funding with efficiency.
As the policy change takes effect, universities and researchers are bracing for impact. Some have expressed concerns about how they will adapt to reduced funding, while others see it as an opportunity to rethink their budgeting processes.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/07/us/politics/medical-research-funding-cuts-university-budgets.html