The directive also suspended the grant review panels that determine which research projects receive funding.
Shorter communication freezesin the first few days of a new administration arent uncommon.
It also brings the intricate processes through which federal research grants are evaluated and awarded into the spotlight.
© Sean Gladwell/Moment via Getty Images
Study sections are overseen by theCenter for Scientific Review, the NIHs portal for all incoming grant proposals.
These scientists are a mix of permanent members and temporary participants.
Each criterion is scored and combined into an overall impact score.
Evaluating projects for their scientific merit and potential impact is an involved process.
Because no system is perfect, the NIH is constantly reevaluating its review process for potential improvements.
On average, only1 in 5 grant applicationsis funded.
Some study section meetings have been postponed indefinitely, and program officials faced delays in processing applications.
Medical research often follows a strict timeline.
Importantly, the pause underscores the fragility of the research funding pipeline and the cascading effects of administrative uncertainty.
Biomedical research in the U.S. hashistorically maintained bipartisan support.
News from the future, delivered to your present.
