SfN Supports Non-Human Primate Research Infrastructure Proposal in FY22
The Society for Neuroscience (SfN) welcomes the research funding levels included in the Biden administration’s fiscal year (FY) 2022 budget proposal, especially the funding boost to support the use of animals in research. The proposed NIH budget of $52 billion and NSF budget of $10.2 billion represent increases to the FY21 levels that will enable the next big discoveries in basic research. We encourage Congress to support funding these biomedical research agencies at the highest possible levels, including specific neuroscience programs such as the BRAIN Initiative. The Society looks forward to working with policymakers and our advocacy partners to advance these bold research funding levels.
Crucially, the NIH budget includes an additional $30 million to support a 27% expansion of non-human primate research infrastructure resources at the National Primate Research Centers (NPRCs) and Caribbean Primate Research Center (CPRC). These resources will address critical logistical and infrastructure needs, including animal acquisition, transport, breeding, and housing.
Non-human primates make essential contributions to our fight against COVID-19 as well as serve an essential role in other areas or research. There are currently no existing viable alternatives to animal models available for studying biomedical systems that advance our understanding of the brain and nervous system, or when investigating treatments for diseases and disorders like depression, addiction, Parkinson’s Disease, and certain emotional responses.
Additionally, SfN continues to advocate for research relief funds to help restart labs impacted by the pandemic. NIH Director Francis Collins recently recommended that approximately $16 billion is needed to help NIH researchers recover from the disruption. Legislation such as the RISE Act would help address these currently unmet needs.
SfN is a strong supporter of responsible animal research, with resources for scientists and the public to learn more about animal research.
