Similar Topics

More about protecting research

Dive deeper into Duke’s advocacy and resources (Duke Today)

For decades, federally funded university research has fueled breakthroughs that improve health, safety, and daily life. That long‑standing partnership now faces serious challenges as shifting federal policies threaten research funding, including support for the facilities and administrative costs that make scientific discovery possible. Grant freezes, proposed cuts to agencies like the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation, and delays from recent government shutdowns risk slowing the pace of innovation nationwide.

At Duke, leaders are working to protect and advance the research enterprise because of its direct impact on patients and communities. Duke research underpins new diagnostics, treatments, and technologies that move discoveries from the lab to real‑world use. “As an academic health center, Duke’s ability to deliver the most advanced care to our patients is inseparable from our ability to conduct extraordinary research,” said Mary Klotman, dean of the School of Medicine.

Duke leaders, including President Vincent Price, are advocating at the national level to preserve federal support and block policies that could undermine research. “This is a critical moment for the future of American research and innovation,” Price said. Federal investment remains central to this work, and recent bipartisan action by Congress protected funding for agencies like NIH and NSF. At the same time, Duke has launched internal programs to help researchers pivot and sustain progress, ensuring research continues to save lives.