As uncertainty continues in the federal funding landscape, the University of Minnesota, one of America’s leading public research universities, remains strongly committed to its research mission.
That was the message brought forth by Shashank Priya, vice president for research and innovation, and David Hagen, director of cost analysis, who provided an update on the current status of federal research funding disruptions to the Board of Regents Mission Fulfillment Committee at its May meeting.
As of April 25, 72 federal research awards had been terminated, totaling $22.3 million in lost grant funding, and impacting 220 University of Minnesota personnel. A majority of the awards affected were from National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation and U.S. Department of Agriculture. The most common reasons for the terminations were related to diversity, equity and inclusion; foreign aid; climate; vaccines; or the awarding agency was targeted for elimination or reduction.
“The University of Minnesota’s research enterprise is resilient, but today’s environment demands that we be more nimble than ever,” Priya said. “We are fully committed to supporting our researchers — whether through rapid response initiatives, strategic planning, or direct assistance. Our goal is to protect the people and projects that drive discovery and innovation.”
The University of Minnesota has taken action to navigate this period of uncertainty. This includes conducting scenario planning with collegiate research leaders and partnering with federal relations and national associations, including the Association of American Universities and the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. The University established a Rapid Response Task Force in February to monitor the fluid nature of the federal landscape.
In addition, this week the University launched the Researcher Assistance Initiative for Supporting Emergencies, or RAISE, program. This new fund provides short-term funding for researchers to complete or wind down projects paused by the federal government and provide continued student, postdoc and research staff employment. The program is expected to remain active until June 30, 2025, based on need and availability of funds.
"During this time of uncertainty, we are making changes to best support our people, respect their work and sustain our leadership in providing unmatched service to the people of Minnesota, nation and world," said President Rebecca Cunningham. “Now is the time for all of us across higher education to strongly advocate for the importance of research in maintaining our economic and national security as well as our global competitiveness."
The Board also:
- Discussed the University’s statewide health sciences undergraduate programs.
- Received annual reports on human resources strategy and sustainability.
- Reviewed Board of Regents policies on Academic Misconduct and Conflict Resolution Process for Employees.
- Recognized distinguished students, faculty and staff.
- Reviewed results of the 2024 Economic Impact Study.
- Received updates on the Strategic Facilitation Process for Minnesota Healthcare, Native American Affairs, and the University-wide Strategic Plan.
The Board’s Virtual Forum accepts audio, video and written input, which is shared directly with Regents and included in the Board’s public materials. The public is encouraged to visit the Virtual Forum to submit their comments.
The Board of Regents is scheduled to meet next June 12-13. Visit regents.umn.edu for more information.
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