The May 2022 Update from the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) provides a thorough overview of recent developments affecting academic research administration in the United States. Key highlights include ongoing legislative and regulatory changes regarding research security, intellectual property management, cybersecurity, and compliance. Notably, the update addresses security concerns raised about the SBIR/STTR programs in relation to potential foreign influence, continued debate on drug pricing and march-in rights, and the anticipated impact of the USICA/COMPETES conference negotiations on research security requirements and foreign engagement reporting. The document also discusses new federal guidance and regulatory activities from agencies such as the Department of Education, NIST, DOD, NIH, USDA, and NSF, including updates to cybersecurity standards, animal research regulations, human subject research protections, and data management and sharing policies.
COGR additionally reports on internal administrative updates, such as the return to in-person meetings, the launch of a new membership portal, and increased use of digital tools for member engagement. Within compliance and financial management, there are updates on the retirement of the HHS Federal Cash Transactions Report, the early release of the 2022 Compliance Supplement, and ongoing audit developments relevant to research institutions. The update underscores the rising administrative burden associated with new disclosure requirements tied to research security and the implementation of NSPM-33, with COGR actively engaging in advocacy for harmonized, risk-based, and transparent federal requirements. In addition, the document highlights COGR’s involvement in providing comment on federal rulemaking, fostering dialogue with federal agencies, and supporting member institutions in adapting to policy changes affecting contracts, grants, and research compliance. The report concludes by acknowledging the efforts of COGR committees and leadership in navigating these evolving challenges in research administration.
