Don't dismantle US scientific leadership in biomedical research

This alarming decision by the NIH to drastically cut indirect cost reimbursements for research grants poses an existential threat to America's world-leading biomedical research enterprise. Universities and medical centers rely heavily on these funds to maintain research facilities, pay staff, and cover other operational expenses that enable cutting-edge science. A reduction from around 27% to a mere 15% reimbursement rate will cripple the ability of top institutions to conduct groundbreaking studies and retain talented researchers. This short-sighted policy undermines decades of federal investment in building unparalleled research capabilities. We urgently request that this disastrous policy be reversed immediately. Failing to do so will inflict irrevocable damage, causing a brain drain as prominent researchers depart for better-funded opportunities abroad. Vital research into diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's, and so many others will grind to a halt. The U.S. will squander its hard-earned leadership in biomedicine, jeopardizing future medical breakthroughs that save millions of lives. Restoring full indirect cost reimbursements is critical to safeguarding the vigor of American science and ensuring we remain at the vanguard of human health discoveries for generations to come.