Comment from Pablo Gonzalez

As a chemistry professor and department chair at a small private university, I am deeply concerned about the potential impact this proposed rule could have on scientific research, undergraduate education, and workforce development. At institutions like ours, federal grant funding serves a purpose far beyond supporting research projects. It provides undergraduate students with hands-on opportunities to participate in authentic scientific investigations, develop technical skills, present their findings at professional conferences, and prepare for careers in medicine, healthcare, research, and graduate education. Through grant-supported collaborations with larger research institutions, our students have been able to contribute to biomedical research projects involving advanced analytical techniques, molecular biology, and data analysis. These experiences are often transformational, particularly for students who may not otherwise have access to major research universities or extensive research infrastructure. Any policy changes that increase administrative burden, restrict collaboration, reduce funding flexibility, or limit the dissemination of scientific findings could disproportionately affect smaller teaching-focused institutions. Such changes would not only impact faculty researchers but would also reduce opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in meaningful research experiences that strengthen the nation's future STEM workforce. As our institution works to expand research opportunities and scientific capacity, federal support remains an essential component of that mission. Investments in science are investments in education, innovation, healthcare, and economic growth. I respectfully encourage OMB to carefully consider how these proposed changes could affect institutions of all sizes and the thousands of students whose academic and professional futures are shaped by participation in federally supported research. The United States has long been a global leader in scientific innovation because of its commitment to research, collaboration, and education. Policies governing federal research funding should continue to strengthen these foundations and ensure that opportunities remain accessible to institutions and students across the country.