Research

Andrew Read to host conversation focused on executive action affecting research

Discussion will take place on Feb. 28 and will be available to join in person or live online for the Penn State community

Indirect costs are expenses that cannot be directly attributable to a specific research project but are necessary for the overall operation of the research functions of the university. For example, they support maintenance of research laboratories and shared equipment, operations such as heating and lighting, and necessary services such as high-speed data processing. Credit: Brooke Doerfler / Penn State. Creative Commons

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – The Penn State community is invited to attend a conversation hosted by Penn State Senior Vice President for Research Andrew Read at 11 a.m. on Feb. 28 at University Park campus and online. The conversation will provide an opportunity for faculty, staff and students to engage in dialogue with Read about recent executive action and federal agency communications that have the potential to affect Penn State’s research enterprise.  

In particular, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has proposed a 15% cap on indirect cost reimbursements for federally funded research. While University leaders are still working to understand the directive and the potential implications for Penn State, Read will be available to hear the community’s questions and discuss how indirect costs support university research. 

“This period of potential change is unsettling, and I want the University community to know that we are monitoring the situation closely and engaging in advocacy, and will continue to share information as it becomes available,” Read said. “There are many questions that I cannot yet answer, but we can be reminded of our shared values of conducting high-quality research and educating our students.”  

Read will answer questions that have been submitted in advance. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions live during the event, as time allows.

For background, Read’s previous announcement about the proposed NIH cuts is online, while a brief video explaining facilities and administrative costs is available here. Regular updates appear on the website of the Penn State Office of the Senior Vice President for Research.  

Attend in-person at 603 Eric J. Barron Innovation Hub, located at 123 S. Burrowes St. in State College, or online via Microsoft Teams (click to join meeting).  

  • Registration is not required. Penn Staters can join via Microsoft Teams meeting. 

  • If you do not have Microsoft Teams, please select “Watch on the web” to be able to access the meeting.  

Last Updated February 27, 2025