JOINSignificant US research funding cuts still likely, but uncertainty remains
The NIH will restore 900 grants that were cut earlier this year under a recent court ruling. Other researchers have seen reversals in research cuts from other agencies, and courts are investigating cuts by NSF and others (e.g., this one and this one).
The cap of 15% on overhead at NSF and NIH is also on hold pending court decisions, but the uncertainty continues to negatively impact universities and research programs. There is speculation that the Trump administration may simply delay spending appropriated funds until close to the end of the fiscal year that ends 30 September 2025, at which point the funding would expire and be unavailable — a so-called ‘pocket impoundment’ that would have the same effect as cancelling grants without being subject to the same kinds of review.
There is also speculation that cuts may impact government subscriptions and purchases of information products from STM members. We’re working to determine the impact and reality of any such cuts and emphasise the importance of access to information for government scientists and decision-makers.