University of Arizona pauses $300 million biosciences project due to funding uncertainty

The University of Arizona has paused construction on its $300 million Center for Advanced Molecular and Immunological Therapies (CAMI) in downtown Phoenix due to uncertainties surrounding federal funding for medical research. University officials stated that the decision was made to reassess all research-intensive infrastructure needs in light of potential changes in federal support. The seven-story facility, aimed at advancing precision medicine, was originally scheduled for completion in 2027. COO John Arnold emphasized the university's commitment to research but acknowledged that reductions in funding would impact all aspects of operations. This suspension follows a broader trend affecting higher education, with Moody's Ratings recently downgrading the outlook for the sector due to policy changes anticipated under the Trump administration. The university is working with the city of Phoenix to navigate these funding challenges, although the duration of the construction pause remains unclear.