Accounting behind research cuts explained

Science is sophisticated, and so are the principles that govern the way it’s paid for by the federal authorities.

An abrupt Friday afternoon announcement from the Nationwide Institutes of Well being that it will slash assist for oblique analysis prices paid to universities, medical facilities, and different grant recipients left lecturers bewildered and deeply involved that the coverage change would grind scientific progress to a halt. Many universities get an additional 50% or extra on every grant to cowl overhead; beginning Monday, that fee will drop to fifteen% for brand new and current grants throughout all establishments.

The company’s determination additionally raised fundamental questions on what these prices are and the way they’re dealt with by the federal authorities throughout analysis websites.