The Rockefeller Foundation 
113 3 AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS, NEW YORK. N Y 10036 
JOHN H. KNOWLES. M 0. 
PRCSIOCNT 
CABLE R OC K F 0 U N 0. N E W V 0 R K 
TELEPHONE (212) 869-8500 
November 29, 1976 
Dear Dr. Frederickson 
In answer to your letter about The Rockefeller Foundation's 
role in the support or conduct of recombinant DNA research, I would 
like to inform you that the Foundation, following the redirection of its 
programs in 1963, has not supported or otherwise been active in 
molecular biological research except insofar as it applies in a limited 
way to some of the fundamental research in reproductive biology 
supported since 1964 under our current program. The policy will in 
all likelihood be continued in the future. Our program definition of 
just what constitutes reproductive biology and what areas of reproductive 
biology are applicable to the population problem which is our major 
program interest has led to certain guidelines. Under those guidelines 
there is no possibility that we would support recombinant DNA 
research. In the very unlikely event of a change in policy, we would 
certainly report such a change to the NIH and would, if necessary, 
make use of the NIH guidelines in affect at the time. 
Parenthetically, and I am sure you understand my feelings. 
I do have substantial reservations as to governmental censorship or 
control of research. It would seem that in recent times there have 
been increased interest as well as definite steps taken by political 
forces to limit fundamental research. The recent action taken in 
regard to fetal research is a case in point. Nonetheless, I do under- 
stand the public interest in the subject and I salute you for your 
efforts in the public interest. 
DonaldS. Frederickson, M. D. 
Director 
Department of Health, Education, 
and Welfare 
National Institutes of Health 
Bethesda, Maryland 20014 
JHKraym 
Very sincerely yours 
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