arstechnica.com 9 days ago URGENCY: 7/10
New Rules Threaten US Scientific Integrity
The Office of Management and Budget's new rules could cripple US science by sidelining peer review. Discover how these changes may impact research funding and integrity.
The Shift in Grant Funding
The Trump administration's recent executive order aims to overhaul how grant funding is managed in the US. Traditionally, peer reviewers evaluated the scientific merit of grant applications, but the new rules empower political appointees to make final decisions, disregarding expert opinions.
This shift poses significant risks to the integrity of scientific research. Key changes include:
- Peer Review Deprecation: Peer review will become merely advisory, undermining its role in funding decisions.
- Vague Cancellation Powers: Federal agencies can cancel grants at any time, citing a lack of alignment with the "national interest."
- Cultural Restrictions: Grants on certain topics may be banned, limiting the scope of research and collaboration.