As we turn the corner on the longest federal shutdown on record—43 days of uncertainty—I want to acknowledge how our research community responded: with focus, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to moving discovery forward. Even as national uncertainty paused timelines and added pressure, you continued doing what you always do: supporting students, refining proposals, caring for patients, mentoring teams, and advancing work that matters for Utah and the nation.

With the shutdown now behind us, agencies are beginning to release updated guidance, including NIH’s notice this week. We will share clear information as new deadlines and review schedules become available. But today, I want the focus to be on you.

Every day, I see the resilience, creativity, and purpose that define this community. Your work strengthens Utah’s communities, fuels innovation, and positions the University of Utah as a national leader in research and translation. This is exactly the kind of momentum envisioned in Strategy 2030 and our VPR Strategic Plan—a research enterprise that is people-first, impact-driven, and aligned with state and national priorities.

Last week’s Utah Life Sciences Summit reflected that momentum as well. President Taylor Randall was honored as Friend of Industry, and Dr. Wes Sundquist received the Lifetime Achievement Award—, recognitions that highlight not only individual excellence, but the strength, credibility, and collaborative spirit of our entire research ecosystem.

With the Thanksgiving holiday next week, I hope you find moments, even brief ones, to reconnect, reflect, and breathe.

Thank you for everything you do to advance knowledge, serve the public good, and support one another.

Erin Rothwell, PhD

Vice President for Research