New US Grant Rules Spark Controversy

A proposed executive order from the Trump administration aims to drastically change the landscape of grant funding in the US. Traditionally, peer reviewers assessed scientific quality and feasibility, guiding funding decisions made by subject-matter experts. Under the new rules, however, political appointees would have final authority and are advised not to defer to peer assessments.

Compounding concerns, these changes would empower federal agencies to cancel grants at any time based on vague criteria related to the "national interest." Additionally, the proposal includes restrictions on funding for controversial topics, limits on international collaborations, and bans on expenses for publishing and conferencing.