Scientific Societies Sound Alarm on Trump Executive Order: Potential $30 Billion Impact
A coalition of over 50 scientific and medical organizations has issued a letter to the US Congress expressing grave concerns over the Trump administration's executive order asserting political control over grant funding, including all federally supported research. The move could have far-reaching implications for the scientific community, with potential losses estimated at up to $30 billion in annual research funding.
The executive order, which took effect last month, inserts a layer of political control over both the announcement of new funding opportunities and the approval of individual grants. This means that any announcement of funding opportunities must be reviewed by the head of the agency or someone they designate, giving a political appointee ultimate say over what areas of science the US funds. Individual grants will also require clearance from a political appointee and "must, where applicable, demonstrably advance the President's policy priorities."
The scientific community is sounding the alarm, citing concerns that this order could undermine the integrity of the peer-review system, which has long been the gold standard for awarding federal grants based on merit. The coalition of organizations, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), argues that this move will have a chilling effect on scientific research, stifling innovation and progress.
Market Implications
The impact of this executive order could be significant, with potential losses estimated at up to $30 billion in annual research funding. This is not just a matter of dollars and cents; it's also about the long-term implications for the US economy and global competitiveness. The scientific community has consistently demonstrated that investments in research lead to tangible returns, including new technologies, treatments, and jobs.
Stakeholder Perspectives
"We are deeply concerned about the potential impact of this executive order on the integrity of the peer-review system," said Dr. Rush Holt, CEO of AAAS. "This move could have far-reaching consequences for scientific research and innovation in the US."
Dr. Maria Zuber, President of NAS, added: "The National Academy of Sciences is committed to advancing science and technology for the benefit of society. We believe that this executive order undermines the principles of merit-based decision-making and will harm the scientific community."
Future Outlook
As the debate over the executive order continues, stakeholders are urging Congress to take action to protect the integrity of the peer-review system. The coalition is calling on lawmakers to pass legislation that would restore the independence of the grant review process.
In the meantime, researchers and scientists are bracing themselves for potential changes in funding priorities and a shift towards more politicized decision-making. As Dr. Holt noted: "This executive order sends a chilling message to the scientific community: that politics will now play a role in determining what research gets funded."
The outcome of this debate will have significant implications for the US economy, global competitiveness, and the advancement of science and technology. One thing is clear: the stakes are high, and the future of scientific research hangs in the balance.
*Financial data compiled from Arstechnica reporting.*
