1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

A flu researcher the Trump administration elevated to power will now benefit from a massive funding award. Directing such a massive amount of funding, $500 million, to researchers closely tied to political leadership, rather than through an independent scientific review process, undermines principles of ethical research and public accountability. Concentrating resources on a single vaccine strategy that experts consider outdated, while overlooking more promising novel approaches, is a shortsighted decision that could impede pandemic preparedness efforts. Reallocating funds from broader vaccine development initiatives like Project NextGen to this favored project is troubling. Impartial, evidence-based decision-making should guide research investments, not political motives or personal ties. I urge a return to NIH's traditional practices of open competition and rigorous peer review in awarding grants. Public trust in science demands utmost integrity. Measures must be taken to insulate the NIH from potential undue influence and restore transparency in its processes for the public good.