Presenting on “Beyond the Lab: Understanding and Shaping the Federal Research Landscape”.

Dawn Beraud, PhD, Executive Director of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE), will speak on Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 4:00 pm Central Time in Whitaker 100.

Abstract: Biomedical researchers are advancing breakthroughs that improve human health and quality of life, yet the federal policy and funding environment that supports this work is increasingly uncertain. Shifting priorities, budget pressures, and evolving agency strategies are reshaping the research funding landscape across NIH, NSF, ARPA-H, DOD, and others.

In this seminar, the AIMBE Executive Director will provide timely updates on federal research policy and funding trends, offering insight into recent and proposed changes that are impacting biomedical research, infrastructure, and innovation. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how these developments may affect their work and the broader research ecosystem.

The session will also explore why advocacy is a critical responsibility for today’s research community and how individuals can engage effectively without becoming policy experts. Practical guidance will be shared on communicating research impact, engaging during key policy moments, and leveraging professional societies like AIMBE to amplify individual and collective voices.