BOSTON — The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) held its annual meeting from February 13 to 15, centered on the theme “Science Shaping Tomorrow.” However, an undercurrent of the event was the feeling of “uncertainty” among attendees.
With thousands of scientists, advocates, and policy experts present, this gathering marked the largest science meeting in the U.S. since the start of Trump’s second term. The atmosphere was charged with anxieties about funding cuts to research, the removal of public data from online resources, and job losses among federal scientists.
As the meeting began, many federal employees, including researchers from prestigious institutions like the NIH, CDC, and EPA, were losing their positions. AAAS CEO Sudip Parikh acknowledged the challenging environment during his welcome address, stating, “I don’t want to sugarcoat that.”
Joseph Francisco, AAAS board chair, voiced the feelings of many: “The unprecedented nature of the last few weeks has left many in the science community uncertain, anxious, and fearful. These feelings are valid.” Researchers described their workplaces as chaotic, and confusion seemed pervasive. Miles Arnett, a bioengineering Ph.D. student at the University of Pennsylvania, echoed this sentiment, stating, “No one knows what is coming.”
Some attendees were cautious about revealing their affiliations, with one researcher even flipping his name badge to avoid identification. Many expressed a desire to distance themselves from their workplace while discussing their experiences at the conference.
Conversations steered toward the political climate’s impact on scientific integrity. During a session on science and misinformation, Katherine Ognyanova from Rutgers University remarked on the rising levels of misinformation, summarizing the discussion with a stark visual of a mushroom cloud captioned “The End.”
Besides worries about job security, scientists lamented the potential erosion of American scientific prestige. Many recalled a post-World War II collaboration between scientists and the government that fostered growth in basic research, technological advancements, and economic prosperity. However, recent discussions suggested that international perceptions of American science might be shifting.
Canadian bioethics student Nada Salem noted an increased number of international scientists considering leaving the U.S. for more stable environments. Aidan Zlotak, a quantum physics Ph.D. student at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, echoed the concerns, saying he plans to move to Europe after graduation.
While there’s a consensus about the threats facing American science, opinions differ on how to respond. Some researchers wish to remain focused on their work, hoping for the best, while others demand unity and collective action. Epidemiologist Gregg Gonsalves highlighted the importance of being vocal, stating, “Your silence is not going to protect you.” The challenges appear to be universal, impacting scientists in various fields.
Efforts to advocate for science are gaining traction. The Union of Concerned Scientists is mobilizing grassroots support, gathering signatures for an open letter to Congress opposing actions harmful to scientific research, which has already amassed over 50,000 signatures.
Communications strategist Matt Heid emphasized the importance of tracking the consequences of political actions on health and environmental issues. He pointed out the immediate and lasting repercussions that could affect every state, especially with job cuts happening in crucial areas like public health just as outbreaks threaten ecosystems.
Some scientists are also wary about how to communicate their research themes amidst new executive orders limiting language concerning diversity, equity, and social changes. Internal medicine doctor Dhara Patel shared her struggles with grant applications, uncertain about the terminologies she should use.
However, there are signs of collective planning. After experiencing the original March for Science in 2017, graduate student JP Flores and his peers are organizing a new rally titled Stand Up For Science in early March. Flores believes that meaningful change arises from collective action, rather than isolated efforts.
The sentiment among scientists is shifting from a general concern over scientific integrity to a more personal stake in the fight to protect their pursuits and livelihoods. As this meeting highlighted, the scientific landscape is fraught with challenges that demand attention and response.
