New NIH Funding Cap Threatens Research—Take Action Now

Members of Congress are highly interested in the views of their constituents, especially on issues that impact their state or district. This is particularly true when the issue has received significant state or national media attention. While a thoughtful, detailed letter may appeal to some, a simple phone call to your representatives is often more effective.

On Friday February 7, 2025, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced that it would institute a 15% cap on the Facilities & Administration costs (also known as “indirect” costs) provided to research institutions. When the NIH awards a research grant, it also provides the university with funds to cover the costs of the infrastructure and operating expenses necessary to conduct the research.

This 15% cap is far below the amount institutions need to support NIH-funded research.

Members of Congress likely have limited understanding of these details of NIH funding. Nor would they understand how critical institutional operating funds are to the ability of U.S. scientists to focus on cutting edge research.

They need to hear from you.

Finding Your Representative’s Phone Number:

1. Visit govtrack.us and enter your home address to find your Member of Congress or Senators. Their Washington, D.C. office phone number will be listed for each representative.
2. When a staff member answers, introduce yourself with your name and address to confirm you are a constituent. If you get their voicemail, leave a message.
3. Your conversation may be brief, as they may have to answer other calls. Clearly explain why you’re calling, what you want your representative to do, your research field, and mention any potential medical outcomes your research could have.
4. Be courteous and respectful and offer to leave contact information for further follow-up.

Encourage colleagues and lab members to make calls too.

Sample Call:

“Hello, my name is [Dr. Jim Smith], and I live on [Main Street in Anytown, Connecticut]. I am a [biomedical researcher at the State University], where I study [briefly describe your research]. This research is funded by the [NIH] and is crucial because [in one sentence explain why your research is important to the public].

The decision by the NIH to immediately reduce the amount of funds it provides universities to support biomedical research will have a devastating impact on American science.

Universities are vital partners in the research we do. Without the administrative support and the research facilities they provide, I could not do my research.

I am deeply concerned about the implications of this decision on America’s standing as the world’s leader in life science research.

I urge [Senator Jones] to take action to stop these reductions in university research support. Thank you for your time, and I would be happy to discuss this further at any time.”