The University of Toronto (U of T) has established an emergency fund to aid its researchers affected by funding cuts and policy alterations at U.S. federal research agencies. The initiative, introduced recently, follows substantial reductions at agencies like the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation during the tenure of U.S. President Donald Trump, leaving many U of T researchers facing sudden deficits.
Leah Cowen, U of T’s vice-president of research, innovation, and strategic initiatives, emphasized that the new fund aims to ensure research continuity while researchers seek alternative funding sources. Describing research as a global collaborative effort, Cowen highlighted U of T’s prominent role in research, which involves collaboration with researchers globally.
Despite typically receiving approximately $20 million annually from U.S. federal research agencies or American university partnerships, the loss of these funds has had severe repercussions on researchers, according to Cowen, affecting projects like medical biophysics professor Paul Fraser’s work on Alzheimer’s disease therapy.
Fraser, collaborating with institutions in New York City, faced disruptions to his project due to the cessation of foreign sub-awards from the NIH. He expressed gratitude for U of T’s financial support, crucial for sustaining his research while exploring alternative funding avenues, such as Canadian Institutes for Health Research and charitable foundations.
Highlighting the impact of funding interruptions on a project’s multidisciplinary team, Fraser emphasized the challenge of replacing specialized researchers if funding gaps force research pauses. He stressed the importance of securing replacement funds to maintain research momentum.
Cowen clarified that the emergency fund does not intend to substitute U.S. federal funding. She expressed hope for continued Canadian government investment in a robust research ecosystem supporting Canadian-global research partnerships. Notably, the Coalition of Canadian Research urged Prime Minister Mark Carney to uphold last year’s research funding commitments ahead of the upcoming budget, indicating the sector’s anticipation of potential cuts.
Cowen conveyed her mixed sentiments of concern and optimism regarding the government’s recognition of Canada’s research and innovation significance. Stressing the pivotal role of the research ecosystem in driving economic productivity and addressing global challenges, she underscored the critical need for sustained support.
The Prime Minister’s Office did not immediately respond to queries regarding the matter.
