Shift of US funds for research seen hurting Boston colleges

The Boston Globe reports:

Faced with growing budget pressures, Congress this month cut overall government investment in scientific research for next year, in a move that is likely to make it harder for Boston-area researchers to secure federal dollars to pursue scientific breakthroughs and new discoveries.

In completing its legislative business for the year, the House and Senate approved a series of bills that effectively cut funding in 2006 for federal agencies such as the National Institutes of Health, its first budget reduction since 1970, as well as NASA and the National Science Foundation. The decisions will put a squeeze on research grants and other government funds critical for area universities and research institutions, according to specialists.

With the Boston area relying on the federal government and losing population,what's the future growth trend there?