The October 2013 meeting agenda for the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) outlines a two-day event scheduled at the Washington Marriott Hotel, focusing on current policy, regulatory, and legislative issues affecting research institutions. The meeting features sessions on significant federal policy updates, including revisions to the NSF Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide, ongoing NIH subaccounting and costing policy changes, and recent developments in contracts and intellectual property law. The agenda anticipates notable participation from federal officials, contingent upon resolution of the then-ongoing government shutdown. Key topics include OMB grants reform, export control initiatives, patent legislation, and broader federal research funding challenges, with special attention to how legislative and administrative actions may impact universities and affiliated research organizations.
Distinguished guest speakers, such as Nina Easton of Fortune Magazine and policy experts from the AAAS and the Association of American Universities, will provide insights into the federal budget outlook and the implications of political gridlock for research funding. The program also includes focused committee reports and offers opportunities for membership engagement and discussion, stressing the need for participants to submit issues and questions in advance. Administrative details regarding registration, accommodation, and attendance restrictions emphasize the event’s exclusive nature for COGR-affiliated entities. Overall, the agenda reflects COGR’s ongoing commitment to addressing emerging challenges in governmental relations, research administration, and compliance within the academic and research communities.
