From the Dean's Desk welcomes guest author Brisa N. Sánchez, PhD, Dornsife Endowed Professor of Biostatistics and Associate Dean for Research Epidemiology and Biostatistics

I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the challenges we face with research grant funding, especially funding for public health and equity research. A common question I hear these days is whether it is worthwhile to continue writing public health research grant proposals. While the current climate can feel discouraging, it is important to remind ourselves why we must keep conducting research and why we must also keep writing grant proposals.

First, grant writing is more than a means to secure funding, and I would argue it can be an intellectually nourishing process. When we engage in developing proposals, we are challenged to think deeply about emerging questions, innovative approaches, and the broader impact of our work. This creative process can be energizing, offering a sense of renewal and purpose even in times of uncertainty. It reminds us why we entered this field: to generate ideas that advance knowledge and improve public health. Additionally, the rationale we establish in our proposals can also be adapted to develop other scholarly contributions, ranging from systematic reviews to thought pieces that help advance the field.

Second, even if the likelihood of success is low, writing a grant proposal forces us to clarify our goals and priorities for our research programs and chart a path forward. This process helps us reaffirm our long-term goals and ensures that our research remains focused on addressing pressing public health needs. In short, grant writing helps refine and strengthen our scholarly identity. Moreover, it can strengthen community trust by showing our partners that we refuse to give up.

Third, grant writing is an essential skill that requires regular practice, as well as patience and grit. The process demands that we compellingly frame research questions, persuasively argue their significance, and communicate their impact. These competencies require practice and are foundational for an impactful career, within and beyond academia. Each proposal, regardless of outcome, is an opportunity to learn and grow these skills. The process also requires persistence and continuous effort, given the long review timelines and the reality that proposals often require revision. While we need pauses to rest, extended breaks in grant writing risk eroding momentum and diminishing our scholarly voice, precisely when persistence is most critical.

Finally, there’s another critical reason to keep writing: Submitting proposals to major federal funders is not only about advancing individual research agendas; it is a collective act of advocacy for the field. When we submit public health research proposals, we signal that this field remains vital and deserving of investment. Conversely, if we stop submitting, we risk sending the message that interest has waned, and thus potentially leading to further reductions in funding. Our continued engagement ensures that public health stays on the national research agenda.

Writing grants is an act of resistance and resilience. It is a way of asserting that our work matters and that we will not be silenced by the current environment. Through persistence, we demonstrate our commitment to advancing knowledge and improving health equity. This resilience is not only strategic, it is a reflection of our values as public health researchers and professionals.

As Helen Keller reminds us, “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”  Let’s continue to support each other in this process, share ideas and celebrate the creativity that comes with shaping the future of public health research. Our work matters, and our persistence will help ensure that it continues to be recognized and funded.