EDWARDS, R.: Cultural evolution of scientific values: grant overhead in a parasite-host model.

From 1968 to 1992, basic science in the United States experienced an economic condition so pervasive and significant that it was rarely acknowledged to occur. During this period, “grant overhead,” or the requested percent by which a grant budget was increased, was not limited to any specific amount, but rather was negotiated annually with no set limit. The requested amounts rapidly increased from a maximum of 20% to in some cases over 80%. Neither the necessary paperwork (e.g. Circular A-21) nor the Department of Health and Human Services were then equipped for this degree of negotiation, and by the early 1980s these monies had become an important source of operating funds for university administrations. Faculty hiring and success reflected these priorities, and the ability to generate overhead funds became a central factor of academic life. Most significantly, the administrative priorities had become internalized by faculty as values. This presents a remarkable example of cultural evolution, using funds as a marker of energy: during this period, a parasite-host system operated up to and including the modification of the host’s behavior in favor of parasite vigor. I present both the mechanics and the impact of this system on ourselves as academics and scientists, including aspects of teaching, hypothesis testing, mentoring, and status. Also, Congressional hearings in 1992 have led to an important change in the system, such that administrative overhead is limited to 26%. This change is beginning to affect academia and its grant-oriented practices. I present an outline of the relevant concerns and issues.