The ASBMB's policy positions
Advocate for sustainable, predictable and increased funding for scientific research. Learn more
Support the next generation of scientists. Learn more
Increase diversity, equity, access and inclusivity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Learn more
Address emerging science related issues e.g. research security, international collaboration, pandemic preparedness, workforce recovery etc. Learn more
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%
- Legal action pursued by State Attorney Generals and first judicial decision
- Legal action pursued by Association of American Universities (AAU), Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU), and the American Council on Education (ACE)
- Judicial decision updates
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
- Some directors at NIH placed on administrative leave
- NSF to reinstate some employees as well as CDC from first rounds of layoffs
Award

ASBMB honors Lawrence Tabak with public service award
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.
This Black History Month, we highlight the impact of DEI initiatives, trailblazing scientists and industry leaders working to create a more inclusive and scientific community. Discover how you can be part of the movement.
The society encourages the executive and legislative branches of the U.S. government to continue their support of the nation’s leadership in science.
PAAC members met with policymakers to advocate for basic scientific research, connected some fellow members with funding opportunities and trained others to advocate for science.
Ann West, chair of the ASBMB Public Affairs Advisory Committee, sits down Monica Bertagnolli, director of the National Institutes of Health.
Advocacy newsletter
Enter your email address to sign up for monthly updates from the ASBMB Public Affairs team.
Get involved
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.