Trump has terminated several members of the independent National Science Board
The Trump administration has terminated several members of the independent National Science Board (NSB), which sets policies for the National Science Foundation (NSF). The move, described as abrupt and without clear justification, has drawn criticism from lawmakers concerned about its impact on scientific independence. It remains unclear how many members were dismissed or whether upcoming NSB meetings will proceed as scheduled. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren strongly condemned the action, calling it damaging to American science and innovation.
- ●The National Science Board (NSB) establishes policies for the National Science Foundation, which funds about 25% of federal academic research in science and engineering.
- ●Board members were informed via letter that their positions were 'terminated, effective immediately,' with no official explanation provided.
- ●The NSB currently has 22 active members, fewer than its maximum of 25, following the prior resignation of NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan.
- ●Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren criticized the terminations as harmful to science and consistent with a pattern of undermining the NSF.
- ●It is uncertain whether the NSB's scheduled May 5 board meeting will take place.
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