Comment from Mike Wakin

[200.205, 200.340] To Whom it May Concern: I am a Professor of Electrical Engineering. I am writing in my personal capacity to oppose the proposed revisions to sections 200.205 and 200.340 that would undermine the integrity of federal grant review processes and federal science agencies' ability to identify and fund impactful research. Peer review is the gold standard for excellent science. I have completed multiple reviews for federal agencies and served on multiple panels for the National Science Foundation. These panels are extremely thoughtful and professional, giving me great confidence that our taxpayer dollars are being spent in the most effective way. Interfering with this process will not only lead to lesser quality projects being funded, but it will also chill the scientific climate in the United States and drive some of the best scientists to other countries. Part of a successful research group is training the next generation of great scientists through our Ph.D. programs. Supporting a Ph.D. student requires several years of funding stability. Without this assurance, Ph.D. programs will not be able to attract the best and brightest students to become the next generation of world-class American scientists. Science makes America great. But ultimately, this rule will be detrimental to the future of American science.