By Andi Anderson
The University of Illinois has joined a major legal challenge against the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) following a decision to cap energy research grants for universities. The DOE recently announced a new policy that would limit funding for indirect costs—such as facility maintenance, data systems, and administrative staff—to 15%.
This decision has sparked widespread concern among leading research institutions. The University of Illinois, along with the Association of American Universities and eight other institutions, filed a lawsuit on Monday, claiming that the cap would severely harm scientific progress. According to the complaint, the move mirrors a similar policy previously blocked by a judge in the healthcare research sector.
Chancellor Robert Jones and Provost John Coleman of the University of Illinois stated in a memo that this funding cut could be devastating. The lawsuit argues that scientific projects rely on these grants to cover the behind-the-scenes costs that support high-level research, including salaries for support staff, advanced computer systems, and specialized facilities designed for sensitive work like nuclear energy research.
The University of Illinois is one of the top recipients of Department of Energy grants, and under current rules, is eligible for nearly 59% in indirect funding. Reducing this figure to 15% would result in a dramatic loss of resources and capacity for ongoing research programs.
The DOE argues that the change is meant to improve efficiency and expand research efforts nationwide. However, the universities involved believe it will do the opposite—hindering innovation and limiting the ability to carry out critical energy-related studies.
This legal battle could shape the future of university-led scientific research in the United States, with far-reaching implications for education, innovation, and national energy goals.
Photo Credit: istock-fangxianuo
Categories: Illinois, Energy