The recent Executive Order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump has raised significant concerns among scientists and those who benefit from scientific research. The order, titled “Improving Oversight Of Federal Grantmaking,” grants Trump and his appointees unprecedented control over the allocation of scientific funding from the federal government. This move could potentially bypass the traditional scientific peer-review process and federal agency recommendations, allowing for more political influence in determining which projects receive funding.
Historically, the federal grantmaking process has been overseen by career-track federal employees within agencies like the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. These employees have relied on input from the scientific community, advisory boards, and peer-review processes to make decisions about grant awards. However, the new Executive Order may shift this control to political appointees, potentially undermining the role of scientists in the decision-making process.
Furthermore, the Order contains language that could make it easier to terminate grants that no longer align with the President’s policy priorities. This raises concerns about the politicization of scientific funding and the potential for grants to be used as bargaining tools rather than investments in valuable research.
The Order also references indirect costs, suggesting a preference for institutions with lower rates. This could disadvantage researchers at institutions with higher negotiated indirect cost rates, further complicating the grant application process.
The rationale provided for the Executive Order includes claims about federal grants funding controversial projects and promoting ideologies deemed anti-American. While it is true that not all funded projects may be successful or impactful, using a handful of examples to justify sweeping changes to the grantmaking process may not be the most effective approach. Instead, a more evidence-based and transparent review of the grantmaking process could lead to more informed decision-making and better outcomes for scientific research.
Ultimately, the allocation of federal scientific funding plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge, improving lives, and driving innovation. It is essential that any changes to the grantmaking process are made with proper oversight, input from the scientific community, and a commitment to transparency and accountability. As this Executive Order unfolds, it is important for everyone to closely monitor its impact on scientific research and ensure that funding decisions prioritize the pursuit of knowledge and the betterment of society.
