POLL: Are You Seeing the Effects of Federal Research Changes?

In early 2025, significant changes in federal research funding policies have introduced uncertainty for the medical research community, including dermatology. These developments may impact clinical trials, translational research, and the training of future physician-scientists.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) implemented a policy capping indirect cost reimbursements at 15%, down from previous rates that often exceeded 50%.¹ Although a federal judge temporarily blocked this policy following legal challenges, many institutions have already initiated hiring freezes, reduced graduate admissions, and paused research projects.²

Effective January 25, 2025, the NIH introduced a simplified peer review framework for research project grants, fellowships, and training grants.³ These changes aim to streamline the application process and promote fairness by focusing on key assessments such as candidate potential and research training plans.

The NIH has ended funding for programs related to climate change and health, reflecting a shift in research priorities.⁴ Additionally, Notices of Funding Opportunities related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and health disparities have been removed, raising concerns about the future direction of NIH-funded research.⁵

Understanding how these federal funding changes affect the dermatology community is crucial. Your insights will help us gauge the real-world impact on research, clinical practice, and education.

Let us know your thoughts and experiences by answering our poll above and commenting on social media, or by writing to us at DTEditor@mmhgroup.com.

References

1. Clark D, Klumpp L. Understanding the NIH's new indirect cost rate policy: what nonprofit and higher education CFOs need to know. BDO Insights. Published February 25, 2025. Updated February 24, 2025. Accessed May 23, 2025. https://www.bdo.com/insights/industries/nonprofit-education/understanding-the-nih-s-new-indirect-cost-rate-policy-what-nonprofit-and-higher-education-cfos-need
2. Treisman R. Education: Universities across the US freeze hiring as federal funding hangs in the balance. All Things Considered. National Public Radio. March 12, 2025. Accessed May 23, 2025. https://www.npr.org/2025/03/12/nx-s1-5324496/universities-hiring-freezes-federal-funding
3. Announcing a simplified review framework for NIH research project grant applications. Northeastern University Research Enterprise Services. Published October 19, 2023. Updated January 29, 2025. Accessed May 23, 2025. https://nu-res.research.northeastern.edu/announcing-a-simplified-review-framework-for-nih-research-project-grant-applications/
4. Waldman A, Lerner S. NIH ends future funding to study the health effects of climate change. ProPublica. Published March 24, 2025. Accessed May 23, 2025. https://www.propublica.org/article/nih-funding-climate-change-public-health
5. Schwartz N. NIH prohibits new grant awards to colleges with DEI initiatives. Higher Ed Dive. Published April 23, 2025. Accessed May 23, 2025. https://www.highereddive.com/news/nih-prohibits-grants-dei-policies-colleges/746062/