Originally published through the Research Radar e-newsletter list on February 6, 2025.
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Colleagues,
In recent weeks, there have been significant and rapid changes to the legal and procedural landscape affecting researchers and the federal agencies that fund much of WSU’s research. To keep our WSU community informed, we have created a dedicated web page with agency-specific updates and information.
This week, the Office of Research collaborated with the Provost’s Office and the Office of the Attorney General to develop the following statement, which offers guidance on federal agency compliance. Additionally, our website includes a question-and-answer section for further information.
If you have any questions about your current grants, agency requirements, or if you’re unsure about procedures or policies, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at orso@wsu.edu. We’re here to support you.
Complying with Federal Agencies
Federal agencies have issued varying guidelines, directives, and requests regarding compliance with various recently issued Executive Orders (EOs). For instance, agencies have instructed Principal Investigators (PIs) to review or cease activities that may violate these EOs related to DEI/DEIA without clear definitions and parameters. Because access and community engagement are core to WSU’s land-grant mission, the university does not interpret work in these areas as conflicting with the parameters outlined in the EOs. See the Q&A section on the webpage for more details on related definitions.
Given the complexity of the EOs and their implementation, PIs are encouraged to work directly with their Program Officers for assistance and clarification. If necessary, PIs may need to submit an amendment to their scope of work. This step will include working with ORSO (orso@wsu.edu) to formally amend the grant, thus providing clarity on approved grant work.
WSU’s Office of the Attorney General is available for consultation at wsu.atg@wsu.edu as needed given the scope, complexity, and ambiguity of some of these guidelines, directives, and requests.
Kim Christen
Vice President for Research
Office of Research
Professor, Digital Technology and Culture