New Tools to Support Penn Researchers in a Changing Federal Landscape

As the national research landscape evolves—with recent announcements such as the proposed NIH reduction in indirect costs—Penn is responding with powerful new tools to help our research community navigate change, manage risk, and find funding.

RAMPART: Risk Assessment Model for Proposal and Award Rapid Testing
Developed by faculty and staff from the Perelman School of Medicine and university partners, RAMPART helps Penn researchers evaluate potential risks in grant proposals—such as being declined, not reviewed, or having funding withdrawn. This kind of foresight is especially important in light of proposed federal changes that could affect infrastructure support for research. Use is entirely optional and secure, with data privacy maintained within Penn. Access RAMPART here using your PennKey.

Pivot-RP: Smarter Search for Funding and Collaborators
Pivot-RP is a new platform available to all PennKey holders that enables rapid, AI-powered searches across 38,000+ global funding opportunities. It also recommends collaborators based on shared interests—both inside and outside Penn—making it easier to build research teams and pursue diversified external support. Access Pivot-RP here.

These tools come at a critical moment and complement existing platforms and services, including:

• SPIN – Part of the PennERA system, providing searchable access to public and private funding opportunities.
• InfoReady – Manages internal competitions, such as Limited Submissions and University Research Foundation (URF) grants.
• Office of Research Services – Offers up-to-date guidance related to federally funded research, including impacts from recent and proposed federal policy changes. View resources here.

As we work closely with the Office of General Counsel, our government relations team, and national organizations to address unfolding policy developments, these tools will help ensure that Penn researchers can remain resilient, competitive, and supported—advancing lifesaving discoveries and knowledge that depend on sustainable funding.

Dawn A. Bonnell

Senior Vice Provost for Research

Henry Robinson Towne Professor of Engineering and Applied Science