SVPR Update

--- On Behalf of Andrew Read, Senior Vice President for Research  ---

Dear Penn State Research Community:

I am writing to provide an update and acknowledge the concerns regarding a recent memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) that may impact our research enterprise.

As you are likely aware from the media coverage, the OMB on Monday night sent a memo to all federal agencies directing them to "temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all Federal financial assistance." This memo was not sent directly to Penn State, so we are working through the possible implications of the memo on our federal research grants. And even this afternoon OMB posted a clarification question-and-answer document on their memo; things are moving quickly.

We recognize that there are many questions and want you to know that we are actively monitoring federal agency communications and working with our professional associations, including the Association of American Universities, Association of Public Land-Grant Universities, and the American Council of Education, to better understand the depth and breadth of the directive, as well as the potential ramifications and possible mitigation strategies.

The OMB memo addresses federal agencies; it is not a directive to Penn State. When we receive notifications from funding agencies, we will communicate directly with PIs and others who are affected with instructions.

As a research community, we are tasked with creating knowledge for the greater good and with educating our students. As we navigate these new waters and their potential impacts on our University, we must remain committed to this mission and make it our top priority to carry it out. Therefore, until you hear from me further, please continue to conduct your work as normal.

In particular, as always, it is essential that you continue to comply with all requirements of your currently funded grants, including preparing and submitting progress reports. Although the OMB memo requires agencies to temporarily halt their acceptance of new grant applications, please remember that the directive is for federal agencies, and it is important that you continue to prepare applications as part of your normal course of business.

In the coming days and weeks, you will continue to hear from me and others. In the meantime, if you have questions, please contact your associate dean for research or Robin Riglin (rbs15@psu.edu) in the Office for Sponsored Programs. In addition, if you receive a communication from a federal agency requiring action, please also forward it to Robin Riglin.

Please know that we are here to support you. The University remains committed to research and educational excellence, and together we will navigate any changes to come.

Sincerely,

Andrew