Dear Research Community, 

Last week’s VPR Town Hall highlighted the scale of changes shaping the federal research landscape. Shifting funding priorities, evolving compliance requirements, and proposed changes to facilities and administrative (F&A) cost models are influencing how proposals are developed, reviewed, and managed. While we don’t yet have updated F&A guidance, we are preparing for potential changes and positioning the University of Utah to adapt with clarity and purpose. 

We’re closely tracking federal developments; from the fair-cost model for research and upcoming OMB actions to NIH priorities and emerging compliance rules. These changes could affect how indirect costs are recovered and how proposals are evaluated.  We remain focused on anticipating what’s ahead and preparing the tools and strategies you need to navigate it successfully. 

The upcoming F&A Town Hall on October 21 will provide an opportunity to discuss these issues in more detail. We’ll share what we know, what’s still unfolding, and how we can work together to respond strategically. In the meantime, we encourage you to stay connected through AVPR’s Desk updates and the resources we continue to make available for proposal development and compliance planning. 

Your research continues to drive discovery, innovation, and impact across disciplines and communities. Thank you for your adaptability, your creativity and your ongoing contributions to strengthening our position as a national leader in research and innovation. 

Erin Rothwell, PhD
Vice President for Research