On February 7, the NIH issued guidance that reduces the federal contribution to indirect costs (IDC) for scientific research. This decision comes despite the fundamental role IDC plays in supporting the operational aspects of research, which include essential infrastructure not directly tied to specific projects. The guidance aligns with the arguments put forth in Project 2025, which links IDC to funding for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives. The shift marks a departure from longstanding principles developed during the Cold War that facilitated an innovative and free approach to scientific research funding.
The recent NIH guidance limiting indirect costs for research has significant implications for the future of scientific investigation, questioning the sustainability of federal funding.
Historically, indirect costs have been essential for maintaining a robust scientific infrastructure; the new guidelines risk undermining this framework established since the Cold War.
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