By Annette Pinder

Several of our nation’s most prominent medical institutions are undergoing billions of dollars in cuts to research funding due to new government policies. Among these are Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and the University at Buffalo. ProPublica says the cuts will be devastating for neuroscience, mental health, health equity, rural health, HIV, cancer, and vaccines. Here’s why.

  • Disruption and Cancelling of Studies. Pausing or cancelling ongoing projects results in wasted resources, incomplete data, and loss of potentially groundbreaking findings.
  • Delayed Discoveries. Research that can’t progress delays the discovery of new knowledge and the development of innovative treatments, therapies, and advancements.
  • Compromised Clinical Trials. Stalled or terminated clinical trials limit patient access to potentially life-saving treatments.
  • Job Loss and Career Uncertainty. Loss of funding leads to layoffs for early-career researchers who depend on grants to support their work and careers.
  • Talent Drain. A lack of funding opportunities deters students and young scientists from entering research fields, and a loss of talent and diversity within the scientific workforce.
  • Reduced Training Opportunities. Reduced funding impacts programs that train the next generation of researchers, exacerbating shortages in critical fields like pediatric research.
  • Financial Strain on Institutions. Universities and research institutions face economic challenges that impact their overall research capacity and programs.
  • Slower Progress in Social Challenges. Reduced research funding hinders progress in public health, disease prevention, and education.
  • Economic Impact. Funding cuts impact job creation and the development of new industries.
  • Loss of Public Trust. Research that is jeopardized due to funding issues damages public trust in science and the scientific process.
  • Diminished Global Competitiveness. Reduced investment in research diminishes a nation’s leadership position in science and innovation, especially as other countries increase their research spending.