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TBD | Trump's War on Scientific Research
Mar 21, 2025
Katherine J. Wu, a staff writer for The Atlantic known for her insightful coverage of science, dives into the Trump administration's cuts to NIH funding. She discusses how these terminations hinder vital research on aging and vaccine hesitancy, causing real challenges for scientists. The conversation highlights the troubling intersection of politics and science, emphasizing the potential stifling of innovation and public health advancements. Wu also shares personal anecdotes reflecting the emotional toll on researchers navigating this turbulent landscape.
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Quick takeaways
- The Trump administration's abrupt cuts to NIH grant funding jeopardize critical biomedical research, undermining both scientific progress and public health initiatives.
- Termination of grants based on ideological alignment rather than scientific merit creates a toxic environment within the NIH, fostering fear and discontent among staff.
Deep dives
The Shift in NIH Grant Funding
Recent changes in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant funding policies have led to numerous grant terminations, significantly impacting researchers. The abruptness of these cancellations has shocked many, as grants that were previously deemed valuable are now being discarded without prior warning or opportunities for appeal. For example, Professor Jace Flatt from the University of Nevada lost multiple grants crucial for his studies on aging and dementia in LGBTQ populations, forcing him to halt research and lay off staff. This shift indicates a troubling trend where political considerations override scientific merit, jeopardizing vital medical research and funding continuity.
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