UI gets less research funding from Federal Gov, leader credits ‘resilient’ staff

IOWA CITY, Iowa (KCRG) - The University of Iowa brought in more than $536 million in research funding in fiscal year 2026 — but received about $5 million less from the federal government compared to the year before.

The federal government provided $295.8 million for UI research in fiscal year 2026, down from more than $300 million the previous year. While the drop represents less than a 2% difference, those funds are essential for research at the university — often making up the salaries of researchers across campus, with some grants running for decades.

Much of that federal support comes from the National Institutes of Health. Under the Trump administration, the NIH has added new requirements for giving out research grants. Iowa Capital Dispatch reports restrictions have cut funding for projects on vaccine messaging, Alzheimer’s research, cochlear implants and diversity-focused programs.

David Schwebel, Vice President for Research at the University of Iowa, acknowledged the impact.

“Yeah, it’s hard,” Schwebel said. “So when someone has a federal government change to their grant, they adjust, they adapt, they’re resilient, and they find ways to continue great research that is consistent with federal government priorities.”

Schwebel said researchers who lose funding may be forced to change their area of study entirely to remain eligible for federal support — or risk losing their positions.

Despite the challenges, Schwebel said the work continues.

“I see the dollars as important, but ultimately, it’s the impact,” he said. “Our researchers are continuing to do the science that helps Iowans, helps Americans, helps the world.”

UI was not alone. Iowa State University saw a significantly larger decline, receiving $167 million in federal research funding in fiscal year 2026 — a drop of 30% from the year before.

Schwebel said other contributors — including the state and industry groups — may help fill gaps when federal money is lost.