North Dakota Energy Research Center Cuts 40 Jobs Amid Federal Funding Delays

The EERC, part of the University of North Dakota, employs roughly 210 people and draws funding from federal, state, and private sources. In fiscal year 2025 it reported about $85 million in total revenue, with $40 million from competitive federal grants, $30 million from private sector contracts, and the remainder from state appropriations. The center conducts research on coal, oil, natural gas, carbon capture, geothermal, and emerging energy technologies.

The center announced the elimination of 27 full‑time positions and the furlough of 13 additional workers, for a total impact on 40 employees. Chief Operating Officer Tom Erickson told legislators that the EERC is waiting for federal funds that were promised more than twelve months ago and has not yet received those dollars. He noted that the delay has left the organization “on its heels” despite ongoing private‑sector successes.

The staff reductions signal immediate budget pressure as the EERC bridges a gap in federal cash flow while trying to maintain research programs. Furloughed staff may return if funding resumes, but the cuts could slow ongoing projects and affect the center’s ability to compete for future grants. The situation highlights the vulnerability of research institutes that rely heavily on timely federal appropriations.