Posted: May 21, 2025

Dear Colleagues,

We want to provide a few updates regarding the current situation at the National Science Foundation. This information is based on intelligence from our consultants, McAllister & Quinn, and conversations with program officers.

  •  The NSF has announced five priority areas focused on artificial intelligence, quantum information science, biotechnology, nuclear energy, and translational science. Importantly, however, the agency is indicating that they “remain committed to awarding grants and funding all areas of science and engineering to promote the progress of science, advance the national health, prosperity and welfare and secure the national defense.” Program officers have said that researchers should continue to submit to open solicitations and that if the agency is restructured while proposals are under consideration, they will work to get them into the right hands.
  • Program officers are also recommending that, if possible, researchers submit proposals for available opportunities by June 30, anticipating an uptick in awards before the end of the federal fiscal year.
  • The announced 15% cap on indirect cost recovery has been paused until June 13, at which point a judge will hear a request to overturn the cap in a summary judgment. Until new information is available, Lehigh is submitting proposals to the NSF and other federal agencies at our negotiated 65% ICR rate. We will accept a different rate at the time of award if a revised policy is implemented.
  • During this time of upheaval, it is more important than ever to maintain relationships with program officers and agency staff. We encourage you to stay in regular contact with your NSF contacts, continue asking questions, and keep the lines of communication open. A thoughtful note of appreciation can go a long way during what is clearly a challenging time for many at the agency.

We will continue to keep you updated as new information becomes available. The NSF also updates FAQs regarding their priorities on a regular basis.  In the meantime, we encourage you to reach out to Kate Bullard (ksb216@lehigh.edu) and the research development team for assistance in strategy or proposal development. 

Best wishes,

Anand Jagota, Vice Provost for Research

Dominic Packer, Associate Vice Provost for Research

Cynthia Kane, Associate Vice Provost, Research and Sponsored Programs

Kate Bullard, Director, Research Development and Postdoctoral Affairs