Trump Administration Bans Federal Funding for Gain-of-Function Research

The Trump administration implemented a government-wide policy on July 28, 2026, prohibiting federal funding for dangerous gain-of-function (DGOF) research within the United States and abroad. Executed under Executive Order 14292, the policy defines DGOF as research that risks increasing a biological agent's transmissibility, resistance to medical interventions, or overall harmful effects.

The framework bars federal support for research conducted by individuals or institutions of concern, as well as those based in countries of concern. While federal funds are restricted, the policy does not ban privately financed research and permits the development of therapeutics and vaccines. Institutions are now required to evaluate all life sciences research against these definitions to maintain eligibility for federal support.

Violations of the policy may lead to the revocation of existing federal funds and a five-year ban on future funding. The policy was announced by the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to improve the safety and security of biological research.