During a government shutdown, agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) generally pause new grant awards, proposal reviews, and program launches. Institutions with existing federal research awards may still be able to draw down previously obligated funds, but technical assistance, progress reviews, and application processing are typically suspended.
According to the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), most federal research staff and grant managers are classified as nonessential and furloughed, resulting in delays that can extend well beyond the shutdown itself. Past shutdowns have led to cancellations of reserved time on national lab instruments, closures of field research sites on federal lands, etc.
The impact on undergraduate research is not yet clear, but students applying for NSF, NIH or other federally supported programs might experience delays in response times to email and program timelines might change. UROP advises students involved in projects to stay in communication with project mentors and be attentive to program websites for updates.
CU Boulder’s administration is working to minimize disruptions to research and other grant-supported activities. In the unlikely event that students with UROP funding experience changes in their ability to accomplish project goals, such as the availability of mentors and/or resources, UROP will not withdraw previously awarded funding.
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Pre-Collegiate
We encourage students to explore pre-collegiate options for research and creative engagement before university enrollment.
The views and opinions expressed in the videos included here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of UROP, The University of Colorado or any affiliated organizations. While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information included, we encourage readers to seek expert advice in confirming the validity of all information and guidance before making any decisions. The experienced team of advisors in CU Boulder's Office of Admissions are happy to answer questions as prospective students consider options.