Lifecycle of a research grant – behind the scenes of the system that funds science

A scholar reveals the ins and outs of how research gets funded, including the checks and balances that ensure high scientific standards and financial integrity at every stage of a grant’s lifecycle.

Kelly S. Mix, Associate Dean for Research, Innovation, and Partnerships in the College of Education, University of Maryland • conversation
May 22, 2025 • ~10 min

Unprecedented cuts to the National Science Foundation endanger research that improves economic growth, national security and your life

The Trump administrations has canceled more than 1,400 federal grants that support engineering, biology, geology, computer science, STEM education and much more.

Paul Bierman, Professor of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, University of Vermont • conversation
May 15, 2025 • ~10 min

Basic research advances science, and can also have broader impacts on modern society

Basic research that doesn’t have a specific industrial or experimental application still adds value outside the lab by engaging people with exciting research.

Bruce J. MacFadden, Distinguished Professor Emeritus, University of Florida • conversation
May 8, 2025 • ~11 min

Cutting funding for science can have consequences for the economy, US technological competitiveness

The jury’s out on whether the US is still at the top of global science. Proposed cuts to major agencies could mean completely ceding that title.

Chris Impey, University Distinguished Professor of Astronomy, University of Arizona • conversation
Feb. 17, 2025 • ~9 min

Biden helped bring science out of the lab and into the community − emphasizing research focused on solutions

Biden’s legacy includes elevating science’s influence in federal decision-making and considering the social and ethical effects of research.

Arthur Daemmrich, Professor of Practice in the School for the Future of Innovation in Society, Arizona State University • conversation
Jan. 17, 2025 • ~10 min

Federal funding for major science agencies is at a 25-year low

Research funding is down in recent years despite promises made with the CHIPS and Science Act.

Chris Impey, University Distinguished Professor of Astronomy, University of Arizona • conversation
June 28, 2024 • ~9 min

Using research to solve societal problems starts with building connections and making space for young people

Use-inspired research goes beyond translational research to build lasting connections between researchers and communities.

Michael Muszynski, Associate Professor in Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Hawaii • conversation
April 10, 2024 • ~9 min

Congress’ failure so far to deliver on promise of tens of billions in new research spending threatens America’s long-term economic competitiveness

A deal that avoided a shutdown also slashed spending for the National Science Foundation, putting it billions below a congressional target intended to supercharge American science research.

Jason Owen-Smith, Professor of Sociology, University of Michigan • conversation
March 13, 2024 • ~9 min

Congress is failing to deliver on its promise of billions more in research spending, threatening America’s long-term economic competitiveness

A deal that avoided a shutdown also slashed spending for the National Science Foundation, putting it billions below a congressional target intended to supercharge American science research.

Jason Owen-Smith, Professor of Sociology, University of Michigan • conversation
March 13, 2024 • ~9 min

Congress is failing to deliver on its promise of billions more in research spending, threatening America's long-term economic competitiveness

The latest government showdown over the budget risks not only a shutdown but jobs, regional economies and America’s competitiveness in AI and other advanced fields.

Jason Owen-Smith, Professor of Sociology, University of Michigan • conversation
Jan. 16, 2024 • ~9 min

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