federal research funding

Harvard University will reinstate merit-based salary increases for the 2026-27 fiscal year across several key schools, signaling a partial financial recovery. This move follows last year's federal funding cuts and subsequent austerity measures, including a hiring freeze and program reviews. While some schools are resuming raises, others are still assessing their financial situations amidst ongoing restructuring and legal challenges.

The US President's dismissal of the National Science Board and other scientific bodies has sparked concerns about the erosion of scientific norms. This move, alongside funding cuts and grant cancellations, is prompting foreign-origin scientists to consider leaving the US, with India actively recruiting talent.

A high-stakes legal battle is underway in Oakland as Elon Musk sues OpenAI's Sam Altman and Microsoft, alleging a betrayal of the AI company's founding nonprofit mission. Musk claims the shift to a for-profit model enriched leaders and investors, deviating from the original goal of benefiting humanity. The trial could significantly impact OpenAI's future and the AI industry.

US authorities are investigating a concerning pattern of American scientists, with access to sensitive research, going missing or dying since mid-2024. The White House, FBI, and Congress are collaborating to uncover potential links, including foreign actor involvement. Multiple agencies are reviewing at least eleven cases, some dating back to 2022, to assess national security implications.

Jury selection has begun in Musk v. Altman, the federal trial pitting OpenAI's billionaire co-founder against the company he helped build. Elon Musk alleges Sam Altman ran a "long con"—using nonprofit promises to secure funding and talent before quietly pivoting to for-profit. He's seeking up to $150 billion in damages and wants Altman removed. OpenAI calls it jealousy. The verdict could reshape AI's future.

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei is warning the AI industry to stop downplaying disruption—and start owning it. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei is warning the AI industry to stop downplaying disruption—and start owning it. Speaking to the Financial Times, he predicted AI could wipe out 50% of entry-level white-collar jobs within five years. With trust in short supply and early-career workers already feeling the squeeze, Amodei argues the industry's credibility depends on delivering real benefits, not just promising them.

Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem has issued a stark warning. Powerful new artificial intelligence systems like Anthropic's Mythos pose significant cybersecurity risks. Governments and regulators must act swiftly. These AI models can expose and exploit system vulnerabilities at unprecedented speed. The financial system needs to prepare for this evolving threat. International discussions are underway to manage these ongoing challenges.

Germany’s Alexander von Humboldt Foundation has introduced a structured, three-cycle application system for its Humboldt Research Fellowship from 2026 amid rising global demand. The programme, supporting international researchers, will cap applications at 800 per round, enforce strict documentation checks, and maintain a 20–25% selection rate, signalling increased competition and tighter screening standards.

Whether it’s oil & gas or crucial inputs like gallium or cobalt, import restrictions/high prices rarely produce a complete breakdown. Because markets find alternatives. What’s scary is knowledge-based chokepoints. There’s no easy solution. That’s where GOI should focus

In a profound testament to his character, Eric Dane, celebrated for his roles in 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Euphoria', dedicated his last months to championing ALS awareness and access to treatment. The poignant documentary 'Ring Every Bell' sheds light on his relentless partnership with I AM ALS to push for the renewal of the ACT for ALS legislation.

Astrophysicist Priyamvada Natarajan discusses the challenges facing international students in the US due to shrinking research funding and the transformative impact of AI on scientific methods. She highlights her journey from India, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and lifelong learning, and her contributions to understanding dark matter and black holes.

Usually, Pakistan goes populist and softens the blow. So, what forced it to let prices jump all at once?

Trump says he is “absolutely” considering leaving Nato. But can a US president actually do it — and what would it mean for Europe, global security, and India if the alliance begins to unravel?

The selloff by foreign institutional investors (FIIs) has been particularly pronounced. Rupee has seen its worst financial year in over 14 years, breaching the 95 per dollar mark in trade on the last trading day (March 30) of the fiscal year.

US lawmakers are considering a ban on Chinese-made robots for government use, citing national security and privacy concerns. Senators Tom Cotton and Chuck Schumer plan to introduce legislation to prevent federal agencies from acquiring these systems, fearing data collection and remote control by adversaries. This move follows similar restrictions on other Chinese tech products.

The Trump administration has sued Harvard University. The lawsuit alleges the university violated Jewish students' civil rights. This action is part of a broader campaign against the Ivy League school. The government claims Harvard ignored campus hostility and failed to enforce anti-harassment rules. The suit seeks to compel compliance with civil rights law and recover federal funds.

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's campaign spent nearly $19,000 on a psychiatrist specializing in ketamine therapy. The funds, designated for 'leadership training,' supported treatments for mental health conditions. Ocasio-Cortez has previously advocated for studying psychedelics for therapeutic purposes and has spoken openly about her own therapy following the January 6th Capitol riots.

Indian equity markets face a volatile week, driven by Middle East conflict developments and crude oil price movements. Investors are also keenly watching the US Federal Reserve's interest rate decision and inflation data. Steep losses were recorded last week amid rising oil, a weakening rupee, and foreign fund outflows.

A new CSIS report reveals the US military campaign against Iran has cost an estimated $3.7 billion in its first 100 hours, with most of this spending unbudgeted. The daily cost is approximately $891.4 million, driven by extensive munitions use and advanced system deployment. The Pentagon may seek a $50 billion supplemental funding request from Congress to replenish depleted resources.

A federal appeals court has permitted President Trump's orders against diversity programs at federally funded institutions to move forward. This decision allows federal agencies to review and potentially cut funding for equity-focused initiatives at universities. Columbia University has already adjusted its DEI policies. The ruling renews uncertainty for universities reliant on federal research grants.