US Science Faces Major Budget Cuts, Ignored at “State of Science” Meeting
In a surprising turn of events, the “State of Science” event, hosted by the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), largely overlooked the serious threat of major budget cuts across science and education sectors proposed by the Trump administration. These cuts could severely impact scientific research and institutions for decades.
Budget Cuts Threaten Scientific Progress
Just weeks ago, the administration released a 2026 budget plan proposing extensive reductions across major research agencies, including NASA and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Reports have surfaced detailing how these cuts could shut down crucial research facilities, reduce academic support, and halt entire research fields.
The National Science Foundation faces over a 50% reduction, severely affecting funding in biology, engineering, and education. Notably, NASA’s planetary research funding will be halved, jeopardizing the Mars Sample Return mission and others. Furthermore, delays in grant issuance and ideological revisions are adding to the crisis.
Impact on Research and Development
The National Institutes of Health might see its number of institutes cut from 19 to just eight, leading to unexpected mergers like those of dental and ophthalmological departments. The Centers for Disease Control and the FDA are also expected to face significant budget constraints.
Energy-related research will also feel the effect, with zero funding now slated for initiatives in wind, solar, and renewable energy integration. This contrasts starkly with ongoing support for fossil fuel and nuclear energy projects.
Future of US Science at Stake
While Congress previously restrained the administration’s intervention in scientific matters during Trump’s first term, the current climate appears less optimistic. The scientific community was expected to voice concerns about the impact of these budget cuts but remained notably silent at the recent NAS event.
If implemented, these reductions could relinquish the US’s scientific leadership just as China’s investment in research rivals American levels. The potential damage could hinder scientific advancements and workforce development, prompting a potential “brain drain” as talent moves abroad.
