1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The National Institutes of Health's decision to drastically reduce indirect cost rates for research grants threatens the very foundation of America's leadership in scientific innovation. These funds are essential for supporting the infrastructure that enables groundbreaking discoveries. Without proper funding for research administration, facility maintenance, and operational costs, universities and institutions cannot function at their full capacity. This policy change jeopardizes not only the critical work being done by scientists but also the long-term viability of the U.S. as a global leader in medical research. We risk alienating the next generation of innovators by making it increasingly difficult for institutions to support early-career researchers. Many universities operate with little margin for error, and this drastic cut places them in a precarious position. They will be forced to either absorb these costs themselves or scale back their research programs, limiting the scope and scale of important work. The result will be fewer opportunities for young investigators to develop their careers and make the breakthrough contributions that will shape our future. American science's future depends on preserving the support systems that make discovery and actionable knowledge generation possible. Any reforms must strengthen, not undermine, the nation's ability to lead the world in innovation. We urge the NIH to reconsider this detrimental policy and restore funding levels that sustain the robust research ecosystem that has made the U.S. a global leader in scientific advancement.