Overview

• An open letter signed by nearly 2,000 National Academies members highlights the Trump administration's funding cuts, layoffs, and ideological interference in scientific research.
• The letter describes a 'climate of fear' in the research community, with scientists altering studies and grant proposals to avoid political retaliation.
• Layoffs at key federal agencies, including the NIH, continue, while critical health and environmental programs face termination or disruption.
• The letter warns that dismantling the U.S. research enterprise could result in a loss of global scientific leadership and take decades to recover.
• Scientists are urging the public to contact representatives and advocate for the protection of independent scientific inquiry and research funding.