Scientists Warn of US Brain Drain Due to Trump’s Policies, Threatening Future Talent
According to a Guardian investigation, the Trump administration’s actions are dismantling the National Science Foundation (NSF), potentially jeopardizing US economic growth and innovation. Political interference, including the involvement of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), is undermining the NSF’s peer-review process and causing significant disruptions. Program officers report that applications are being rejected or delayed without explanation, especially those involving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) or climate change, which may lead to a loss of scientific talent and a decline in the quality of research. Furthermore, significant budget cuts and staff reductions across the NSF and related agencies, such as the USGS, threaten scientific progress and the US’s ability to compete globally.