Dear UCSF Community,

As a follow-up to my message on February 10, I want to share with you a notable legal development regarding the National Institutes of Health (NIH)’s proposed cuts to the Finance and Administration (F&A) rate. Earlier today, a federal judge in Massachusetts extended the temporary restraining order on the NIH proposal while she considers a more permanent ruling. The NIH’s proposed cut to the F&A rate remains suspended for now.

I recognize that the pace of the changes in the federal landscape has been distressing for our community, and I know it has been challenging to stay focused. As we navigate the uncertainty, continue to pursue our public mission with integrity and determination. UCSF is guided by our PRIDE Values—and those values will continue to light our path forward.

To bolster the University of California community, UC President Michael V. Drake has issued a video message addressing the fast-moving developments and the UC values that guide us. In addition, he has shared his views on a recent “Dear Colleague” letter from the U.S. Department of Education.

For updates on the policy landscape, here are two online resources to bookmark:

• The UCSF Office of Research’s dedicated site provides guidance, FAQs, and other information related to the executive orders.
• The UC Federal Updates site provides UC-wide updates on the federal policy landscape.

I also encourage you to join advocacy efforts through the UC Advocacy Network, which recently launched a campaign in support of NIH funding and biomedical research. Your voices matter, and collective action can make a difference.

In closing, I want to take a moment to recognize your resilience. I am deeply grateful for your perseverance and resolve, and I encourage you to stay engaged and hopeful.

Thank you for everything you do for UCSF and all those we serve.

Sincerely,

Sam Hawgood, MBBS
Chancellor
Arthur and Toni Rembe Rock Distinguished Professor