South SFV Today

The Faculty Senate has approved changes to the Research Policy Handbook, as proposed by the Committee on Research. This decision came during a meeting where updates on federal policy matters were also provided by President Jonathan Levin and Provost Jenny Martinez.

President Levin expressed concerns about federal support for university research, especially in light of staff reductions at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). He noted, “The indirect cost reduction that was announced some time ago has been stayed by the courts, but that discussion is likely to move to Congress when it takes up the budget bill in March.”

Levin highlighted potential threats from proposals to increase taxes on university endowments, emphasizing their role in supporting undergraduate financial aid and research. “Taken together, there is a genuine threat to the university research model that has served the United States so well,” he stated.

Acknowledging faculty concerns about research planning amid uncertainty, Levin reassured doctoral students of continued funding commitments despite federal decisions. He added that Stanford would continue advocating for scientific research funding with other universities.

Regarding a recent "Dear Colleague" letter from the Department of Education, which offers guidance on interpreting a Supreme Court decision affecting campus programs, Levin stated: “We’ve been getting a lot of questions about what that letter means.” While such letters do not create new laws, they could affect various aspects of campus life beyond admissions.

Stanford is conducting reviews for compliance following the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling and seeking legal guidance. Levin emphasized Stanford’s commitment to academic freedom and diversity: “Academic freedom is at the core of our ability to fulfill our education and research mission.”

During discussions about NIH funding cuts' impact on research programs, Levin reiterated advocacy efforts for university research funding: “Every study of federal research funding...has found that $1...has multiple-dollar payoff in terms of social benefits.”

Provost Martinez outlined Stanford’s approach to managing federal budget uncertainties. She noted: “This is a difficult planning process because there is an unusually high degree of uncertainty.” The institution is preparing multiple budget scenarios while maintaining flexibility.

The Faculty Senate approved amendments to Principal Investigator Eligibility and Criteria for Exceptions policy within RPH 2.1. These changes include extending pilot programs allowing certain researchers outside traditional roles to act as principal investigators under specific conditions.

Memorial resolutions were presented for David M. Ritson and George S. Springer—both esteemed contributors in their fields who passed away recently.

Bonnie Halpern-Felsher raised queries regarding censorship topics in research. In response, Levin affirmed Stanford's dedication to protecting faculty rights concerning controversial subjects.

Senators approved updates related to Stanford's conflict-of-interest policies involving external consulting work documentation requirements through recommendations from C-Res Subcommittee Chair Ruth O’Hara.