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Office of the Vice President for Research
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Guidance for Researchers

Federal Policy Updates for Researchers

Updated June 4, 2026

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Research is a core pillar of the University of Rochester’s identity. While recent federal policy changes have created challenges—including disruptions to certain federal grants—the University remains unwavering in its commitment to research excellence at every level, from undergraduate and graduate students to postdoctoral scholars and faculty. We have successfully advocated for the reinstatement of a number of terminated awards and continue to take proactive steps to strengthen our research enterprise. Most recently, President Mangelsdorf dedicated $8.5 million to launch new transdisciplinary research centers, bringing together faculty from across disciplines to address complex, real‑world challenges. These investments not only enhance our competitiveness for external funding but also create exciting opportunities for philanthropic support that align with emerging national research priorities.

As part of this commitment, the University of Rochester is closely monitoring and reviewing changes in federal policy, including recent executive actions, as well as other changes that may affect research programs and related activities. On this website you will find the latest updates and guidance for researchers, including specific guidance by funding agency.

We recognize there are ongoing questions and concerns as to whether federal funds allocated to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) components in existing grants may be reallocated to other grant activities. We also recognize there is still lack of clarity regarding how DEIA is being defined, particularly around “accessibility.” We are continuing to monitor this and will provide updates as soon as they are available.

Latest updates

General guidance for faculty

  • Faculty must comply with agency-specific mandates (review agency guidance). In cases where agencies have issued such mandates (which is not uniformly the case), they include requirements to cease “grant activity that uses or promotes the use of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) principles and frameworks” (according to the NSF). Such activity “may include, but is not limited to conferences, trainings, workshops, and considerations for staffing and participant selection” (NSF). Many agencies have also issued similar prohibitions regarding activities related to “gender ideology”. 

  • Otherwise, continue working on federally funded projects if obligated funds are available and the sponsor has not issued a stop-work order. Review each agency’s specific guidance, summarized in the links below, noting that there may be differences or nuances in each agency’s approach and guidance.

  • Submit all required deliverables and reports, noting that sponsors may have adjusted content requirements, or may communicate such content adjustments in the future.
  • Some stop-work orders are being sent directly to investigators. Please forward copies of any such notices directly received to resadmin@orpa.rochester.edu.

Contacts and resources

Guidance by funding agency