Episode description
This outbreak of COVID-19 is a very difficult time for scientific research. A lot of experiments are being interrupted and put on pause, and conference travels are essentially not possible. In this episode, Ladan discusses what steps are being taken by government grant-funding agencies to assist researchers during this time.
Top three takeaways:
- Grant-funding agencies such as the NIH and NSF are extending deadlines for grants and experiments, and late applications are being accepted without the need for pre-approval.
- NIH grant money can be used to cover fees incurred from interrupted travel, as well as changing any protocols as necessary.
- The safety and health of researchers and research participants alike is the number one priority during this time.
[0:00] Ladan introduces the episode
[1:30] The NIH and the NSF will extend the deadline for many grants and experiments during this time
[3:45] Dr. Mike Lauer from the NIH explains the implications of this pandemic on scientific research and the way the NIH will be cooperating with researchers during this time
[5:30] The NIH has put out a guide notice stating that late applications will not need pre-approval
[8:00] Hotel and airline refund fees, as well as any other fees incurred due to interrupted travel, can be charged to NIH grants
[9:45] There will be opportunities to apply for administrative supplements to cover costs incurred due to changing protocols and venues
[11:00] This is a very difficult time, but also a time of compassion
Info on how NIH is responding to the outbreak: https://www.nih.gov/health-information/coronavirus
Message from Dr. Mike Lauer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLmBi5wvifk&feature=youtu.be
Info on how NSF is responding to the outbreak: https://www.nsf.gov/news/special_reports/coronavirus/
Producer’s log: I wrote these notes while in quarantine. Ladan locked me up in a tiny room and I don’t know why. He said it was for my own good, and that he’ll let me out "once the storm passes". I haven’t been outside in over 2 weeks. I miss the world. I miss the laughter. I miss the sunshine. Someone please help me.
Producer's log update: OK I'm just kidding, I'm not really locked in a little room. But I do miss socializing with people, I'm starting to get very lonely.