The U.S. science community is facing a crisis, with a national survey of NIH-funded researchers revealing a precarious state of affairs. The survey, conducted by STAT, highlights the devastating impact of the Trump administration's seismic changes to science funding, causing researchers to drastically scale back their work and even shut down labs. The survey of nearly 1,000 researchers found that over a quarter have laid off lab members, and more than 2 out of every 5 have canceled planned research. Two-thirds have advised students to consider careers outside academia. Despite courts reversing some grant terminations and Congress increasing the NIH budget, the survey reveals that only 35% of respondents whose grants were cut or delayed had their funding fully restored by the end of 2025. Early-career researchers are particularly affected, with 81% expressing concern about disruptions to their research productivity threatening their chances of earning tenure. The survey also highlights the emotional toll on researchers, with many feeling enraged and disillusioned by the federal government's actions. The NIH, in response, claims to remain committed to promoting research that improves health, but the survey suggests that federal policies are undermining the agency's objectives. The survey's findings are supported by personal stories from researchers like Mariya Sweetwyne, who has had to lay off staff and reduce her lab's size due to funding cuts. The survey also reveals that 32% of respondents applied for a grant through a program that was subsequently canceled, and 16% took a salary cut due to funding disruptions. The impact of these changes is far-reaching, with researchers struggling to find new funding and institutions cutting back on graduate enrollment. The survey highlights the need for a major reset in the system, with researchers and policymakers grappling with the consequences of the administration's actions.
