Navigating Shifts: Impact of Federal Policy Changes on the Biomedical Workforce [Fall 2025 Members Meeting]

11/19/25 1-2PM ET - Alexandria, VA and Online via Zoom - Members Meeting Virtual Session

Federal policy decisions shape the landscape of biomedical research and profoundly influence the careers, stability, and diversity of the scientific workforce. Ongoing shifts are particularly consequential for early career researchers and workforce development programs, which often serve as the entry points into scientific careers. Understanding and anticipating the effects of federal policy changes is critical for non-profit research funders in advancing their missions and sustaining long-term impact. This panel will bring together leaders from government, academia, and the non-profit sector to examine how changes in federal priorities, budgets, and regulations impact workforce development, talent pipelines, equity initiatives, and the broader research infrastructure.

Moderator

Diane Bovenkamp, PhD, Vice President of Scientific Affairs, BrightFocus Foundation

Speakers

Sindy Escobar Alvarez, PhD, Program Director for Medical Research, Doris Duke Foundation

Bianca Frogner, PhD, Professor and Interim Chair, Dept of Family Medicine Director, School of Medicine at University of Washington

Alycia Halladay, PhD, Chief Science Officer, Autism Science Foundation

Jon Retzlaff, MBA, MPA, Chief Policy Officer and Vice President, Science Policy and Government Affairs, American Association for Cancer Research