What A Day What It’s Like To Have Trump Hold Your Science Research Hostage
Aug 18, 2025
Dr. Aradhna Tripati, a climate scientist at UCLA, shares insights into how the Trump administration's funding cuts have severely impacted scientific research and education. She highlights the chaos and inefficiency these bureaucratic challenges create, especially in vulnerable research areas. Alongside Monique Trinh, they advocate for solidarity in the academic community to protect public interests. The conversation also touches on the intersections of education and healthcare, emphasizing the critical role of public institutions amidst ongoing political tensions.
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Federal Funding Used As Leverage
- The Trump administration froze over $580M in UCLA science grants as leverage over the university. Judge Rita Lynn later ordered some NSF funding restored but NIH and DOE grants remain suspended.
Four Grants, 250 People Impacted
- Dr. Aradhna Tripati had four federal grants frozen, totaling about $10 million. Those grants supported roughly 250 people across students, community partners, and researchers.
Personal Stakes In Medical Research
- Monique Trinh shared her personal connection: her mother entered clinical trials at UCLA when treatments failed. She described colleagues losing opportunities and labs closing early due to cuts.