Interim Guidance on Federal Research Funding Disruptions
April 11, 2025
Dear colleagues,
Recent federal actions have created new uncertainties for research funding. These disruptions include stop-work orders, funding delays and terminations of active awards. We are working closely with the president, provost and the Board of Trustees to develop guidance, but this deliberative process requires time given the lack of clarity on the overall impact to Northwestern and the rapidly changing federal landscape.
In the meantime, we are providing interim guidance to help manage your research portfolios. This guidance is intended for principal investigators and research teams subject to stop-work orders and delayed receipt of non-competitive renewals. Instances where grants have been terminated will be managed separately.
Our top priorities are protecting research personnel and preserving research momentum. So, please follow these guidelines until further notice.
- When research funding has been paused or delayed, do not make immediate changes to the current employment status for all staff and students who were previously supported on those funds.
- Use funds conservatively to help minimize University risk and extend the time that Northwestern can support our research community. Review current and planned expenditures and, where feasible, take steps to reduce your burn rate. This includes delaying non-essential travel, deferring equipment purchases and being thoughtful about staffing decisions.
- Guidance on how to manage these transactions is forthcoming.
Northwestern faculty already manage resources with great care, and we appreciate your thoughtful stewardship. Our goal in issuing this guidance is to help ensure sustainability as we gain clarity on the scope and duration of these federal funding disruptions. We will soon share further information.
Sincerely,
Amanda Distel
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Eric Perreault
Vice President for Research