University Statements

Dear Cornellians,

Today, Cornell joined 11 other universities as a plaintiff in a lawsuit (PDF) filed by the Association of American Universities, the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, and the American Council on Education challenging the cuts to indirect costs associated with National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants. We take this unprecedented step due to the unprecedented nature and enormous impact of this action by the NIH.

For decades, the NIH has partnered with universities to fund facilities and administration costs associated with federal research. This arrangement has greatly enhanced biomedical research, led to innumerable medical advances, and created a virtuous cycle of discovery, innovation, and entrepreneurship that is the envy of the world. Such sudden and dramatic cuts imperil this extraordinarily successful partnership. While we welcome a thoughtful process of evaluation of indirect costs, if the research capabilities of America’s universities are destabilized and undermined in this way, no institutions will be capable of filling the void of discovery and innovation as a public good.

We remain deeply committed to research that enhances the lives and livelihoods of people in New York state and around the world in tangible and lasting ways. We look forward to partnering with the NIH to ensure that we fulfill that mission together.

A temporary restraining order issued today in a case filed by state Attorneys General means that Cornell will not immediately be affected by the NIH changes. Cornell and other university plaintiffs are proceeding with this lawsuit to ensure a long-term resolution.

Thank you for your ongoing dedication to research at Cornell and its broader impact. We will keep you informed of developments as we continue to navigate this challenge together.

Sincerely,

Michael I. Kotlikoff
Interim President

Kavita Bala
Provost

Robert A. Harrington, M.D.
Provost for Medical Affairs