Overview

• The National Institutes of Health has terminated funding for numerous research projects, citing alignment with Trump administration policies on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
• Research areas impacted include transgender health, environmental justice, and studies involving Chinese universities, with at least 16 grants already canceled and hundreds more expected.
• Federal judges in Rhode Island, Washington, D.C., and Maryland have ruled against similar funding restrictions, stating they violate free speech protections and existing grant conditions.
• Scientists and legal experts argue the cancellations are unlawful and could disrupt critical research, with some researchers planning to appeal the decisions.
• The NIH's actions have sparked concerns about the long-term impact on public health and the future of research addressing marginalized communities.