Recent presidential actions, including executive orders (EO), proclamations, and memorandums, may indicate changes in federal priorities, potentially affecting your current and pending projects funded by federal agencies or other sponsors. As federal agencies and sponsors adjust to these changes, we will keep you informed. Please see the latest update from Dr. Erin Rothwell, Vice President for Research, on the federal funding landscape below.
February 26, 2025 | February 21, 2025 | February 14, 2025 | February 13, 2025 | February 7, 2025 | February 6, 2026 | February 4, 2025 | February 3, 2025 | February 1, 2025
January 30, 2025 | January 29, 2025 | January 28, 2025 | January 23, 2025
TOWNHALL
“Federal Funding Updates”
When: Tuesday, February 25th
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 pm (MST)
We encourage all interested members of our research community to attend.
February 26, 2025 | 8:45AM
In light of the recent release of several funding pre-announcements associated with the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), there is a webinar this Friday, February 28th from 12:00-1:00 PM (MST) to prepare for FY2025 opportunities. Registration is required and can be submitted HERE.
The FY25 Defense Appropriations Bill has not been signed into law. The CDMRP is unable to release new funding opportunities under the current Continuing Resolution. The CDMRP is providing pre-announcement information to allow investigators time to plan and develop ideas for submission to anticipated funding opportunities should CDMRP receive FY25 appropriations. Pre-announcements should not be construed as an obligation or promise by the government. Once funding is available, CDMRP funding opportunities will be posted on the Grants.gov website. Pre-application and application deadlines will be available when opportunities are released, contingent upon future funding.
Read more here.
UIDP Webinar: U.S. Federal Legislative Update—Preparing for What Comes Next. On March 3rd @ 11 am MST (details & registration): As members of UIDP, we have access to webinars such as this update with Leslee Gilbert, Vice President of Van Scoyoc Associates, as she provides an insider’s view on the current landscape and where things are likely headed. She will offer an analysis of today’s rapidly changing legislative landscape and explain the budget reconciliation process, which can be used to dramatically alter the government’s role in supporting the U.S. research and development enterprise.
February 21, 2025 | 5:45PM
Research Community,
Last week, during several meetings in DC, the message was unequivocally clear: we must keep pushing our research forward. Continue hiring graduate students and trainees, and look for opportunities to submit those bold, impactful proposals that improve health and society.
This is a critical moment to press through uncertainty. Our Nation's and our institution's greatness are driven by bold ideas, discovery, and calculated risks. Research has carried us through pandemics and recessions, and with a legacy spanning 175 years, U research will continue to serve as a pillar of strength for our community and State.
While uncertainty around funding and F&A persists, focus on what we can do—innovate, collaborate, and advance. We remain committed to supporting our research staff and ensuring their jobs are secure. Our research uniquely positions us to address key challenges related to national security, global competitiveness and economic stability.
Let's channel our collective energy into the known opportunities before us, continuing our legacy of resilience and impact.
Thank you for your dedication.
Erin Rothwell, PhD
Vice President for Research
Federal Judge Extends Block on Trump Administration's NIH Funding Cuts:
A federal judge has extended a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration's proposed cuts to National Institutes of Health (NIH) research funding. The policy aimed to drastically limit indirect research costs, such as administrative and facilities expenses, to just 15%, potentially cutting billions from research budgets. The judge’s extension keeps these proposed cuts on hold until a final court decision is reached.
February 14, 2025 | 11:45AM
Facilities and Administrative (F&A) rates are the mechanisms used to reimburse universities for the infrastructure costs (i.e. F&A costs associated with sponsored research and other sponsored agreements) related to research. F&A rates are essentially overhead rates, calculated as a percentage of the direct costs of sponsored projects, that are used to support and enhance campus-wide research. Learn more about F&A distribution and usage here.
For Media Inquiries Regarding Grant Funding:
If you receive a media request regarding your grant, please contact Rebecca Walsh or Amanda Ashley before responding. We are happy to assist in vetting requests and providing guidance on appropriate responses.
You can reach them at:
Rebecca.Walsh@utah.edu
Amanda.Ashley@utah.edu
February 13, 2025 | 11:30AM
U research leaders: Keep doing the science
Senior leadership tells U faculty to keep seeking grants and hiring grad students as NIH funding battle winds through the courts.
“In the face of potentially massive cuts in federal research funding, senior University of Utah leaders* met with nearly 900 faculty and other researchers at a virtual town hall this week to address their concerns and explain the U’s efforts to minimize the negative consequences unveiled by the supplemental notice released by the National Institutes of Health on Feb. 7th.” Read the full story here.
*This week’s Town Hall featured U of U President Randall, Provost Montoya, Dr. Carter (CEO of University of Utah Health & SVP Health Sciences), and VPR Rothwell. A copy of the slides are available here - mentioned in the Town Hall was the political advocacy website, link included within the presentation.
The ongoing survey link is still live, submit your questions here. The most commonly asked questions are addressed at the Town Halls, as well as the Q&A each Friday. Meeting link to our Q&A here.
NIH 1st-time NCE links have been gradually reappearing. Researchers are encouraged to continue working with OSP to check the availability of the NCE link.
February 7, 2025 | 9:00PM
Message from University of Utah President Taylor Randall, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Mitzi Montoya, Senior Vice President for Health Sciences Dr. Bob Carter and Vice President for Research Dr. Erin Rothwell
In times of uncertainty, one thing remains clear: The power of research to illuminate the path forward.
The University of Utah is a community of thinkers and doers—people unafraid to cross boundaries and ask big questions. That spirit has never been more essential.
We are committed and have a variety of mechanisms to ensure that research at the University of Utah remains strong, even as we navigate policy changes like shifts in our F&A rate at NIH. The University of Utah is well positioned to navigate these changes with vision and resources.
Senior leadership is meeting multiple times a week to engage these shifts. We will also continue our VPR Townhalls every week moving forward on Tuesdays at 12 pm (MST) to ensure support and awareness for our research community. Our next meeting is this Tuesday, February 11th. At this meeting, we will provide updates on our advocacy efforts with the AAU, APLU and other organizations to support efforts to legal challenges.
Through past challenges—whether responding to COVID-19, securing research funding in shifting landscapes, or forging new collaborations—our community has remained resilient. We solve problems because they matter. From identifying the gene linked to breast cancer to developing software that protects wildland firefighters, our researchers take on the toughest challenges. And when policies shift, research continues. Because discovery doesn’t pause.
To those asking, “What should I do now?”—keep moving forward. Also, know we are committed to research and will ensure it remains one of our greatest assets. Keep imagining what’s possible. Research is one of our greatest assets, and we are committed to ensuring it remains a defining strength of this institution. The University of Utah has always been at the center of discovery, and together, we will continue to lead.
RSVP HERE
Link to APLU Statement
Statement from Association of American Universities
Link to Supplemental Guidance to the 2024 NIH Grants Policy Statement: Indirect Cost Rates.
February 6, 2025 | 2:30PM
VPR Update: eRA Commons Automatic NCE Link Update Information Available
An update regarding eRA Commons has been posted on the Office of Sponsored Projects (OSP) website. Please visit OSP for details.
February 4, 2025 | 2:00PM
Today the VPR led a Town Hall, titled “Navigating the Next Research Frontier: Expectations and Opportunities.”
A copy of the presentation and link to the survey available here.
For the month of February, each Friday at 12:00 pm (MST) there will be a follow on discussion.
Meeting Link Here
February 3, 2025 | 12:00PM
The Office of the Vice President for Research presents a new video message from Dr. Erin Rothwell on Supporting Our Research Community
February 1, 2025 | 10:00AM
American Council on Education Webinar Next Week:
dotEDU: New Orders and New Challenges for Higher Education
On February 4th, 2025, the American Council on Education (ACE) is hosting a Webinar on New Orders and New Challenges for Higher Education, from 2:15 – 3:00 pm (MST).
Join dotEDU hosts Jon Fansmith, Mushtaq Gunja, and Sarah Spreitzer for another special episode of dotEDU Live to learn about what executive orders have been rescinded, what new ones have been issued, and what Congress is working on.
Register today and submit your questions in advance, tweet them to @ACEducation, or ask them during the live event.
| Or, dial: | US: +1 253 205 0468 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 |
| Webinar ID: | 988 4632 7184 |
dotEDU Live: Navigating Trump’s First Week
Aired January 22, 2025
Jon Fansmith, Mushtaq Gunja, and Sarah Spreitzer broke down the early days of the Trump administration’s second term and its impact on higher education. With 28 executive orders (EOs) already issued—many targeting DEI, immigration, and gender policies—the hosts analyzed what changed, what stayed the same, and what’s likely to face legal challenges.
Key topics include new executive actions on immigration that could affect international and undocumented students, the administration’s sweeping approach to DEI restrictions, and the implications for federal grant programs. They also discussed how colleges and universities can respond strategically in an uncertain policy environment and what ACE is doing to advocate for higher education.
January 30, 2025 | 3:00PM
OMB Memo (M-25-13) Rescinded
On January 29th, 2025, the OMB Memo (M-25-13) was officially rescinded
Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, emailed the following statement after the retraction of the funding memo:
“In light of the injunction, OMB has rescinded the memo to end any confusion on federal policy created by the court ruling and the dishonest media coverage. The executive orders issued by the president on funding reviews remain in full force and effect and will be rigorously implemented by all agencies and departments. This action should effectively end the court case and allow the government to focus on enforcing the president’s orders on controlling federal spending. In the coming weeks and months, more executive action will continue to end the egregious waste of federal funding.”
The VPR website has an Updates page for relevant updates and information, to keep our research community up to date as executive actions continue to shape federal funding policies in the coming weeks and months.
We appreciate your continued patience and understanding as we navigate these evolving federal funding policies. While the rescission of the OMB memo has clarified certain aspects, the executive orders remain in effect, and we will continue to monitor their implementation closely. Our team remains committed to providing timely updates and support as new developments arise. Thank you for your dedication and perseverance during this period of transition.
Erin Rothwell, PhD
Vice President of Research
January 29, 2025 | 10:00AM
Following our update on the recent Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memo (M-25-13) that called for a temporary pause on federal financial assistance programs, we are updating the U research community based on the latest developments.
Key Updates:
Temporary Block: District of Columbia Federal judge Loren AliKhan temporarily blocked the order, until February 3rd, 2025, when a more permanent decision will be issued.
Funding Agency Communication: Several funding agencies have issued communications with direct guidance. We are closely monitoring this guidance, using it as the basis of our response.
Agency-Specific Updates: The Office of Sponsored Projects (OSP) will send agency-specific information directly to Principal Investigators (PIs). Please look for agency-specific OSP messages and respond accordingly.
Multi-Funder Projects: If your research involves multiple funders, you will receive guidance for each funding agency.
OSP Support: For questions or clarification regarding agency directives, we encourage dialogue with your assigned OSP Officer. You can find a list of OSP officers here.
- Two-page clarification link to the recent OMB memo
- Be familiar with the Impoundment Control Act of 1974
- Question: Is impoundment the same as cancellation? Short answer: No.
January 28, 2025 | 1:00PM
We recognize the concerns stemming from the recent Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memorandum (M-25-13), which calls for a temporary pause on federal financial assistance programs, including grant disbursements and new awards, effective January 28th, 2025 at 5:00pm EST. This directive applies to all federal agencies and is part of an effort to align federal spending with theAdministration’s stated priorities.
As Utah’s leading public research institution and a distinguished R1 university, we remain steadfast in our mission to advance research, foster innovation, and drive solutions that improve lives locally and globally. University of Utah leadership is actively engaging with the State, federal agencies and other key stakeholders to ensure the voices and needs of our research community are heard.
We understand that this temporary measure may create uncertainty forresearchers and institutions reliant on federal support. The University of Utah is committed to:
Federal funding sustains cutting-edge research, workforce development, and economic growth in Utah and across the nation. We are closely monitoring developments, assessing the impact on our research community, and preparing for any adjustments that may be necessary to maintain our momentum.
Our commitment to excellence in research, innovation, and collaboration remains unwavering, and we will continue to advocate for the resources and stability required to fulfill this mission.
Thank you for your perseverance and dedication during this time of adjustment. Together, we will navigate these changes and continue the important work ofadvancing knowledge and innovation.
For ongoing updates and information please visit here.
Sincerely,
Erin Rothwell, PhD
Vice President for Research
Open House Meeting from APLU TODAY:
On New OMB Directive Freezing Programs and Loans
Zoom meeting today, January 28th, from 1 – 2 pm (MST). Link to themeeting below, for those that want to register to attend (or listen to later):
Late yesterday, OMB released a directive to federal agencies, directing a “temporary pause [on] all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all Federal financial assistance, and other relevant agency activities that may be implicated by the executive orders…” The freeze is effective tomorrow at 5pm ET (3pm MST). The freeze includes a pause on all activities “associated with open NOFOs, such as conducting merit review panels.” Agencies are further instructed to among other actions, cancel awards already awarded that are in conflict with Administration priorities. During the “temporary pause,” agencies are instructed to complete a comprehensive analysis of their programs and identify those that maybe be implicated by President Trump’s executive orders, reporting such to OMB by February 10. The directive does not apply to federal assistance provided directly to individuals.
Join us on Zoom today as Jon Fansmith, Sarah Spreitzer, and Heidi Tseu from ACE’s Government Relations and National Engagement team host a members-only, post-inauguration discussion of the new Trump administration and Congress and what they mean for higher education. Hear expert perspectives and ask our presenters your questions during this one-hour program.
If you can’t attend today, APLU will email a recording link to all registrants afterward.
COGR has put together a good resource with all available agency memos on the presidential transition.
January 23, 2025 | 4:00PM
Dear Colleagues,
Please share this message within your respective college or department.
We understand the recent concerns regarding federal funding agencies like the National Institutes of Health (NIH). While the situation may feel uncertain and take time to unfold, we encourage patience and optimism. As Utah’s leading public research institution and a distinguished R1 university, we remain steadfast in advancing research, fostering innovation, and supporting education, workforce development and clinical care to improve lives locally and globally.
University of Utah leadership is proactively engaging with leaders to stay informed and ensure the needs of our research community are heard during this time of adjustment. Transitions between Administrations often include a temporary “pause” in federal funding decisions. This is a routine part of the process as new political staff settle into their roles, review existing programs and evaluate priorities. While this Administration’s pause may be broader in scope than in previous transitions, it reflects a common and expected step in assessing agency goals and procedures.
We know that these pauses can create ambiguity, particularly for researchers and institutions relying on federal funding. Please know that the University of Utah is committed to supporting our research community through these transitions. We are closely monitoring developments, advocating on behalf of our researchers and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Our dedication to advancing research excellence, fostering innovation, and creating impactful solutions remains as strong as ever. Thank you for your perseverance and commitment as we continue this important work together.
Erin Rothwell, PhD
Vice President for Research