Slate News
What Next TBD | Trump's War on Scientific Research
Mar 21, 2025
Katherine J. Wu, a staff writer for The Atlantic specializing in science, delves into the alarming impact of federal grant terminations on biomedical research. She discusses how the Trump administration's cuts threaten vital research fields, including aging and vaccine development. The conversation highlights the emotional toll on researchers and the ethical dilemmas faced by NIH staff under political pressure. Wu emphasizes the long-term consequences for public health and the potential exodus of scientists due to compromised funding integrity.
32:58
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The Trump administration's cuts to NIH grants are jeopardizing critical biomedical research, affecting careers and public health outcomes.
- Political ideology is increasingly influencing NIH funding decisions, creating a climate of fear and stifling innovation among scientists.
Deep dives
Impact of NIH Grant Terminations on Research
The termination of grants by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is having a significant impact on researchers and their ongoing projects. For instance, researchers like Professor Jace Flatt, who studies aging and dementia in LGBTQ populations, have seen their funding cut, forcing them to halt crucial studies and lay off staff. This loss of support endangers not only their careers but also the health outcomes of the populations they study, as research opportunities are lost. Without the necessary financial backing, essential research on public health issues is being stymied, placing further strain on already vulnerable demographics.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
