The Trump administration has dismissed every member of the National Science Board (NSB), according to reports from www.theverge.com.
The NSB serves as the primary advisory body to both the president and Congress regarding the National Science Foundation (NSF). This move follows a period of instability for federal scientific research funding, which has already faced significant declines.
Recent data shows that NSF funding has been operating at historically low levels. The agency has also experienced notable delays in the distribution of research grants, according to the outlet's report.
Impact on scientific infrastructure
The NSF plays a critical role in the development of foundational technologies. The agency's historical support has been instrumental in the creation of MRI machines, cellular phone technology, and the initial growth of companies like Duolingo.
House Democrats have reacted sharply to the dismissal. Zoe Lofgren, the ranking Democrat on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, criticized the decision as an attack on the nation's scientific leadership.
“This is the latest stupid move made by a president who continues to harm science and American,” Lofgren said in a statement. “The NSB is apolitical. It advises the president on the future of NSF. It unfortunately is no surprise a president who has attacked NSF from day one would seek to destroy the board that helps guide the Foundation.”
Lofgren also raised concerns regarding the potential for political appointments to replace the dismissed members. She questioned whether the president would fill the vacancies with loyalists who might compromise American scientific standing against global adversaries.
