The annual gathering in Boston this past week of one of America’s oldest scientific societies discussed threats to humankind: artificial intelligence, toxic “forever chemicals,” and the eventual end of the universe.
However, for many scientists, the most urgent threats were those aimed at them, as the Trump administration reduces the federal scientific workforce and cuts funding for research at universities.
Sudip Parikh, who leads the American Association for the Advancement of Science, described the mood as “Angst and anxiety and, to a certain extent, grief” due to news about layoffs at government agencies.
“It’s like we’re getting hit from all sides,” said Roger Wakimoto, Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of California, Los Angeles.
Within weeks of President Trump’s second term, his administration and Republicans in Congress have impacted universities with crackdowns on diversity initiatives, threats to endowments, and potential deportations of undocumented students.
Scientists fear far-reaching changes that could affect public research funding in the United States, particularly the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation, which fund numerous projects supporting researchers across the country.
A federal judge has halted a plan by the Trump administration to cut $4 billion in N.I.H. funding, but the potential effects on institutions and communities would be devastating if the proposal moves forward.
The current model supporting America’s scientific leadership faces threats with potential changes affecting research funding. Scientists are urged to prioritize efficiency, although concerns persist about destabilizing the system if funding is suddenly withheld.
The Trump administration defends its N.I.H. plan as reducing waste, not research, emphasizing opportunities for greater efficiencies in scientific endeavors.
Pruning regulations on research is a complex challenge, and sudden funding disruptions risk destabilizing the system, according to industry experts.
Scientists at the conference discussed strategies to counteract government actions affecting research funding, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong scientific work to enhance America’s global competitiveness.
The administration’s focus on cutting funding to combat climate change has raised concerns among researchers, particularly in climate science and related fields.
Amid uncertainties, scientists are evaluating their options in response to potential funding cuts and policy changes that impact their research and institutions.
Although challenges exist, some remain optimistic about the future of scientific research and its significance in shaping public policy.