We Asked US Researchers How the Trump Administration's Science Policies Have Affected Them
The survey of 280 scientists found more than half reported lower funding, while 87% said the policy shifts changed research priorities.
- A SciOPS survey of 280 scientists from 131 universities found that Trump administration policies have negatively impacted the American scientific enterprise, producing dramatic, mostly negative effects on researchers and competitiveness.
- Federal changes to funding, DEI, and visa policies have disrupted the American academic research engine since January 2025. Scientists believe these policies have harmed public perceptions of the integrity of American scientists.
- Large majorities believe policies harmed public perceptions of scientists' integrity and hurt public trust in science . Over 80% of researchers report that graduate students have increased concerns about future job prospects.
- Forty-Three percent of surveyed scientists have cautioned students to be careful what they say publicly, while nearly two-thirds are considering alternative career options amid mounting work-related stress.
- Researchers including Arizona State University's Eric Welch and Timothy Johnson of the University of Illinois ChicagoRead question whether these changes represent temporary disruption or a permanent transition to reduced federal support for American science.
24 Articles
24 Articles
We asked US researchers how the Trump administration's science policies have affected them
The American academic research engine has long been the envy of the world. Generally well-funded, labs in the United States have been able to attract the best minds who generate breakthroughs and train the next generation workforce that powers the U.S. economy. But since the start of the second Trump administration in January 2025, new federal policies have destabilized the American scientific enterprise.
The Conversation
Self-censorship, more stress, tougher recruiting – we asked US researchers how the Trump administration’s science policies have affected them
93% of surveyed researchers have negative opinions of federal science policies since January 2025. Cavan Images via Getty ImagesThe American academic research engine has long been the envy of the world. Generally well-funded, labs in the United States have been able to attract the best minds who generate breakthroughs and train the next generation workforce that powers the U.S. economy. But since the start of the second Trump administration in J…
Self‑censorship, more stress, tougher recruiting – we asked US researchers how the Trump administration’s science policies have affected them
by Eric Welch, Arizona State University and Timothy P. Johnson, University of Illinois Chicago, [This article first appeared in The Conversation, republished with permission] The American academic research engine has long been the envy of the world. Generally well-funded, labs in the United States have been able to attract the best minds who generate breakthroughs and train the next generation workforce that powers the U.S. economy. But since th…
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