The ASBMB's policy positions
Advocate for sustainable, predictable and increased funding for scientific research.
Support the next generation of scientists.
Increase diversity, equity, access and inclusivity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Address emerging science related issues e.g. research security, international collaboration, pandemic preparedness, workforce recovery etc.
Advocacy action center
Science serves us all — Join ASBMB in advocating for Congress to reject proposed devastating cuts and policy changes at U.S. science agencies and reaffirm their support for biomedical research
What we’re monitoring
Grants funding freeze
- Original OMB memo and second memo rescinding previous orders
- Legal action pursued by National Council of Nonprofits et al. and first judicial decision
- NIH updated “Grants and Funding” page
F&A/Indirect cost rate
- NIH announced a policy capping facilities and administrations costs at 15%
- NSF announced a policy capping facilities and administrations costs at 15%
- DOE announced a policy capping facilities and administrations costs at 15%
Termination of federal employees
- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to lay off 10,000 employees
- 20,000 in total reduction, including 10,000 from early retirement and voluntary separation
President Trump's FY26 Budget Request
- $27.5 billion for the National Institutes of Health, a 43.5% decrease from FY2025
- $3.9 billion for the National Science Foundation, a 56.9% decrease from FY2025
- $7 billion for the Department of Energy's Office of Science, a 13.9% decrease from FY2025
Science Communication
Seven steps to advocating in your home state
Find out how to schedule, prepare for and conduct a productive district office meeting to communicate the importance of fundamental scientific research funding to your representatives.
ASBMB calls on scientists to take action as funding cuts and policy shifts threaten the U.S. research enterprise, emphasizing the power of community advocacy and persistence in protecting the future of science.
In 60 meetings on Capitol Hill, scientists urge legislators to reaffirm support for scientific innovation
This guide offers practical advice on setting yourself up for success — learn how to leverage campus resources, work with professors and embrace your strengths.
He will deliver prerecorded remarks at the 2025 ASBMB Annual Meeting in Chicago.
With the National Institutes of Health and other institutions canceling summer programs, many students are left scrambling for alternatives. If your program has been canceled or delayed, consider applying for other opportunities or taking a course.
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Advocacy toolkit
Best practices for sharing your stories with the policymakers whose decisions affect your work.
Capitol Hill Day
A program that brings trainees from across the country to meet with their congressional leaders in Washington, D.C.
Advocacy Training Program
A three-month externship that provides the skills to create change and to become a leader for those seeking to do the same.
Advocate at the state level
Learn how to conduct a successful advocacy campaign in your state.