Under Trump, National Science Foundation Cuts Off All Funding to Scientists

image via New Scientist

May 2, 2025, 5:00 PM

• •The NSF halted all funding actions, including new and existing grants, without providing a reason.
• •A new policy requires grant proposals to be screened for alignment with agency priorities, potentially impacting funding decisions.
• •The freeze has caused concern among scientists and could lead to lab closures, with potential long-term economic impacts.
• •The NSF is facing internal turmoil, with the director resigning and numerous grant terminations occurring amidst budget uncertainties.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has indefinitely halted all funding actions, including new and existing grants, causing widespread concern among scientists. This decision, coupled with a new policy to screen grants for alignment with agency priorities, is raising fears of 'Orwellian overreach' and potential damage to scientific research. The freeze comes amidst internal turmoil, with the NSF director resigning and numerous grant terminations already occurring. Scientists and experts worry about the long-term economic impact and the future of U.S. science funding as the agency faces budget uncertainties.

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