Urgent Cuts in Federal Grants Hit Maryland Universities Hard

UPDATE: Maryland universities face an unprecedented crisis as federal grant funding has plummeted by nearly $119 million this year, triggering alarm among academic leaders and researchers. This dramatic shift threatens the livelihoods of many and jeopardizes ongoing research projects across the state.

Scientists at institutions like the University of Maryland, College Park and Johns Hopkins University are now racing against time to secure alternative funding sources after losing vital federal grants. Patrick O’Shea, vice president for research at the University System of Maryland, stated, “Our failure was a lack of diversity in funding,” highlighting the over-reliance on federal dollars that is now backfiring.

The Center for American Progress reported that Maryland universities managed an average of 3,000 federally-funded projects, with about one-third ending each year. On October 10, 2023, researchers convened a virtual town hall to voice their fears about losing their positions and projects. Notably, Marc Pound, a veteran research scientist, expressed his distress: “I don’t see how I can keep working at the university if my grant is clawed back.”

The situation worsened when funding from NASA was cut, leaving many in the academic community in a state of uncertainty. “NASA asked me to take my funding in two blocks… In late summer, NASA said it could not promise the second half of my funding,” Pound explained, underscoring the precarious nature of grant funding for researchers without tenure.

Moreover, concerns extend beyond funding cuts. Faculty members reported feelings of vulnerability in a politicized environment, requesting university support for safety measures and protection against potential harassment. Valerie Orlando, a tenured professor, has been vocal in supporting her non-tenured colleagues facing these challenges.

In addition to Maryland’s losses, Johns Hopkins University suffered a staggering $800 million cut from the U.S. Agency for International Development earlier this year. The university has since established a support website for affected researchers, providing grants up to $150,000 to help faculty pivot their research strategies.

Meanwhile, Morgan State University reported losing 22 grants totaling $13.5 million, although officials noted that the impact has been less severe than at other institutions. Their spokesperson, Dell Jackson, stated, “We are not dissuaded from being the next major research institution.”

Despite the alarming trend, O’Shea remains optimistic. “We are working hard to help our people stabilize, pivot, and grow,” he said, emphasizing the resilience of Maryland’s academic institutions. “Universities have been around longer than most countries or governments. We will survive.”

As the situation continues to unfold, researchers and university leaders are urged to explore new funding avenues while pushing for legislative support. The urgency of restoring federal grant funding cannot be overstated, as the academic community rallies to protect their future and the integrity of research in Maryland.

Stay updated on this developing story. Have a news tip? Contact Karl Hille at 443-900-7891 or [email protected].