Executive Summary
United States investment in scientific research has been a critical driver of the nation’s economic prosperity. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is envied and emulated across the world for its unique approach to supporting fundamental discoveries that lead to transformational improvements in health. The significance of U.S. primacy in the global competition for innovation cannot be overstated, but that primacy is at risk. This report lays out seven recommendations for optimizing NIH that, if implemented, would ensure continued U.S. competitiveness. Talented U.S. biomedical scientists submit far more highly promising research proposals than the current NIH budget can support. The changes recommended here will advance even more bold and innovative proposals, while supporting a more creative and effective workforce, and a more efficient allocation of resources. Not all of these changes require additional funding–indeed, some will save money. However, increased appropriations to NIH are essential if we are to drive the most impactful research, capitalize on recent discoveries to understand mechanisms of disease, design treatments and preventive strategies, and maintain U.S. leadership in science and medicine. We must invest more, and do so in new and creative ways.
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker