Jamie Burns
Jamie provides strategic intelligence (SI) support to the firm’s university clients. In addition, she works to provide clients with analyses of federal sponsors and programs as well as insights about the landscape of university competitors and collaborators.
Chris Soldan
Chris Soldan is a Senior Research Analyst in McAllister & Quinn’s Research Universities Practice. Chris supports the RUP Core team in developing the firm’s strategic intelligence through daily monitoring of R&D funding opportunities
What These Changes Mean for Universities
As the Trump administration reshapes the federal research landscape, McAllister & Quinn has identified key shifts in science and technology funding priorities across federal agencies that fund R&D. Our latest analysis highlights how these changes are reshaping the research funding environment, and what universities need to know to stay competitive. Connect with us for additional details on the key themes identified below.
Agenda Promotes Technology, Defense, and Applied Science
From Climate to Competition: Research priorities are shifting away from climate and equity toward areas with strategic national implications. These include biosecurity, space exploration, artificial intelligence, and broader technological sovereignty, domains where federal investment is increasingly tied to commercialization potential and national defense relevance. Emerging technologies like AI, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing are now central to funding strategies, signaling a new era of tech-driven competitiveness.
Centralization and Consolidation: Within Federal Agencies Reorganization is transforming how federal research is governed and funded. Agencies are consolidating programs and expanding oversight, while aligning decision-making with national priorities.
From Discovery to Deployment: Applied science is a clear research priority. Federal agencies are prioritizing research that delivers real-world impact, especially in AI, biotechnology, and national security. Programs that emphasize industry collaboration and translational outcomes are gaining momentum.
Doubling Down on Defense: National security is a top priority, with a clear emphasis on outpacing global rivals. For universities already engaged with DoD programs, now is the time to strengthen those connections. Relationships are essential for staying competitive in the evolving defense funding landscape.
New Funding Opportunities on the Horizon: Opportunities are emerging, but how and when they roll out will depend heavily on the leadership in place across key agencies and the evolving appropriations landscape. As Congress negotiates FY26 budgets and considers rescissions, agency spend plans remain fluid.
Maintaining Strong Relationships is Key
Universities that stay closely attuned to agency leadership priorities and maintain strong relationships with program officers and industry partners will be best positioned to anticipate shifts, respond quickly, and stay competitive for federal opportunities.
Align Research with Administration Priorities
This is a moment of recalibration. Universities that can find applications with the administration’s evolving research priorities, particularly in disciplines like AI, biotechnology, quantum, defense, and critical infrastructure, will be best positioned to compete for new funding programs and streams.
McAllister & Quinn’s Research Universities Practice is dedicated to advancing science and equipping researchers to navigate a rapidly shifting landscape. To explore how these changes could impact your university’s strategy or to request a tailored briefing, reach out to us.