Trump's Impact on the Next Generation of Innovators: MIT Alumni Share Their Experiences
In a recent roundtable discussion, young researchers who have made it to the prestigious MIT Technology Review's Innovators Under 35 list shared their perspectives on how President Trump's policies have affected their work. The event, part of a three-part series, took place on October 1, 2025, and featured speakers Amy Nordrum, executive editor, and Eileen Guo, senior investigative reporter.
The discussion centered around the challenges faced by early-career scientists in building their labs and companies amidst sweeping changes to science and technology policy. According to the participants, the Trump administration's policies have had a significant impact on their work, with many citing uncertainty and lack of funding as major concerns.
"I've seen a lot of talented young researchers leave academia because they can't secure funding," said one participant. "It's not just about the money; it's about the stability and predictability that comes with government support."
The Innovators Under 35 list recognizes dozens of young researchers each year, showcasing their innovative work in various fields. The participants in this roundtable discussion were selected from among these honorees, representing a range of disciplines including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy.
Background research has shown that the Trump administration's policies have had far-reaching implications for science and technology policy. From changes to immigration rules to funding cuts for scientific research, many experts have expressed concerns about the impact on innovation and progress.
However, not all participants shared the same negative views. Some argued that the current climate has also presented opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
"I think this is a great time for interdisciplinary work," said another participant. "We're seeing more and more researchers from different fields coming together to tackle complex problems."
The roundtable discussion highlighted the complexities of working in today's political climate, where science and policy often intersect. As the participants emphasized, the future of innovation depends on sustained support for research and development.
As the next generation of innovators continues to shape the world around us, their experiences serve as a reminder of the importance of stable funding and supportive policies. The MIT Technology Review's roundtable series provides valuable insights into the complex realities faced by young researchers today.
Related Coverage:
How Trump's policies are affecting early-career scientists in their own words
Innovators Under 35 - 2025
Additional Resources:
MIT Technology Review's Roundtables series
Innovators Under 35 list
*Reporting by Technologyreview.*
