1. United States
2. Ga.
3. Letter

The NIH's decision to slash indirect cost support for research grants to 15% will have devastating consequences for the nation's scientific enterprise. Universities and research institutions rely heavily on these funds to cover essential operational costs like facilities maintenance, administrative support, and core research infrastructure. Without adequate indirect cost recovery, many institutions will struggle to sustain their research programs and may be forced to downsize or even shutter labs. This shortsighted move threatens to disrupt vital research endeavors, stifling scientific progress and innovation at a time when robust investment is crucial. The nation's preeminence in biomedical research hinges on a thriving ecosystem of well-funded institutions capable of attracting and retaining top talent. Crippling their financial stability with draconian cuts to indirect cost reimbursement risks driving away researchers, jeopardizing ongoing studies, and hampering the training of the next generation of scientists. Sustained federal funding for indirect costs is a critical investment in the nation's research capacity and long-term competitiveness. Restoring indirect cost support to previous levels is imperative to safeguard the integrity of the U.S. scientific enterprise and its ability to advance knowledge, develop life-saving therapies, and drive economic growth through innovation. The consequences of failing to do so would be severe and long-lasting.